I from the London I Coliseum.
Musorgsky's epic historical opera as arranged by Shostakovich.
English National Opera's spectacular new production by Francesca Zambello is conducted by their Music Director, Sian Edwards , who made a special study of Khovanshchina (The
Khovansky Affair) at the St Petersburg Conservatory. For Musorgsky, it is the long-oppressed, long-suffering Russian people who are the true heroes and heroines, as their rulers play power politics in Peter the Great's Moscow of the late 17th century.
Chorus and Orchestra of English National Opera, conductor Sian Edwards
Act
6.15 Improving on History Adrian Mourby looks at the liberties that are taken when turning real events into the panoply of grand opera, with references to Khovanshchina,
William Tell , Mazeppa and Joan of Arc.
6.35 Acts 2 and 3 7.35 The James Naugrrtie Interview
Sian Edwards , Music
Director of English National Opera, and this evening's conductor, talks to James Naughtie.
7.55 Acts 4 and 5