Behind the Mask
The Theatre Music of Henry Purcell Conducted and introduced by Raymond Leppard
' I believe that though he lived by the church and state, he lived for the theatre.'
The reputation of Henry Purcell (1658-95), perhaps England's greatest composer, rests mainly on Ms music for church and royal occasions. Yet over half his output was written for the theatre, including the famous ' Lament' from his opera Dido and Aeneas, and 'Fairest Isle' from King Arthur, both featured in this programme. But the theatre music also includes dances and songs full of the fun and vitality of the Restoration stage.
RAYMOND LEPPARD has devised a compilation in the style of a cabaret entertainment which he has called ' Virtue Rewarded' or 'Good Luck at Last.' with April Cantelo (soprano) Robin Leggate (tenor) Ian Caddy (baritone)
ENGLISH CHAMBER ORCHESTRA leader JOSÉ LUIS GARCIA continuo OLGA HEGEDUS
Script by RAYMOND LEPPARD Designer TIM GLEESON
Executive producer JOHN DRUMMOND Producer DENIS MORIARTY