Mascagni's Iris is just such a piece: the composer is famous for his one-act Cavelleria Rusticana, but thought Iris a greater work by far. In only its second year, in 1997, Opera Holland Park championed this neglected and heart-rending story of a cruel and deceitful seduction, which now returns to help mark the company's 21st birthday.
Iris tells the tale of an exploited young Japanese woman and her blind father and Mascagni weaves together themes of desire, hope and tragic innocence. He aimed to create a piece that was "endlessly beautiful" and with the delicious choruses and breathtaking score he certainly succeeded.
This year, Paris-trained Anne Sophie Duprels sings the title role of Iris with the African-American tenor Noah Stewart as the heartless Osaka.
| What | Iris, Opera Holland Park 2016 |
| Where | Opera Holland Park, Stable Yard, Holland Park, London , W8 6LU | MAP |
| Nearest tube | High Street Kensington (underground) |
| When |
07 Jun 16 – 18 Jun 16, 7, 10, 14, 16, 18 June, 7:30PM |
| Price | £17 - £75 |
| Website | Click here for further information and booking |
