Brussels Purcell: Dido and Aeneas — Le Poème Harmonique
Brussels, Palais des Beaux‐Arts — Henry le Boeuf Hall
About the Event
Explore the magnificent architecture of Brussels's grand Palais des Beaux‐Arts and experience an opera performance that promises to deepen your appreciation for this musical form. The legendary Trojan hero Aeneas, tasked with founding Rome, finds himself in Carthage under Queen Dido's reign. Their intense romance leaves Aeneas conflicted between his love and his duty. Eventually, with a heavy heart, he departs for Rome, leaving a devastated Dido behind. Overcome with sorrow, she chooses to end her life. This poignant tale inspired Henry Purcell's opera Dido and Aeneas, featuring the heartrending aria When I am Laid in Earth, where Dido bids farewell to the world — a definitive operatic masterpiece.
For over a quarter‐century, Vincent Dumestre has led his ensemble Le Poème Harmonique through the realms of 17th and 18th‐century French, Italian, and English music, with Purcell fitting perfectly within their repertoire. The rising star mezzo‐soprano Adèle Charvet brings Dido to life, showcasing her burgeoning talent in this iconic role.
Program
- Henry Purcell – Dido and Aeneas
Cast / Production
Le Poème Harmonique, choir
Vincent Dumestre, conductor
Adèle Charvet, Dido (mezzo‐soprano)
Jean‐Christophe Lanièce, Aeneas (baritone)
Ana Quintans, Belinda (soprano)
Marc Mauillon, Sorceress, Sailor (baritone)
Caroline Meng, First Witch (mezzo‐soprano)
Anouk Defontenay, Second Witch (mezzo‐soprano)
Fernando Escalona Melendez, Spirit (countertenor)
Marie Théoleyre, Second Woman (soprano)
Address
Palais des Beaux‐Arts, Rue Ravenstein 23, Brussels, Belgium — Google Maps
