Monteverdi's Flying Circus: St George's

This clever title was the precursor to an entertaining and unusual evening about the last few years of the composer's life.

Armonica Consort are a talented vocal group who cover a wide range of programmes. The opera section produces fun and exciting versions of popular works. This was certainly true of the excerpts from the three operas of Monterverdi, one of the great minds of Western music in the 1600s, woven into this dramatic version of his later life.

Starting with a circus act in which all the singers joined plus some skilful juggling from Jose Triguero we went through the various stages of his life interspersed with music from his three operas.

The pressure of his success affects the various moods of the composer as he rants and raves at his subjects one minute, then becomes more benign in the company of his lady friends. He hasn't much time for his wayward sons and we see some terrific acting from Anthony Pedley giving a realistic account of the mixed-up man.

Anna Sandstron (as his late wife) and Rebecca Moon (his maid) produced beautifully controlled singing while Philip Jones's counter-tenor was very effective. Michael Burgess was a perfect foil as his manservant.

The small orchestra provided excellent accompaniment. Kit Hesketh' Harvey's script took certain liberties but this was an entertaining production

8/10

JOHN PACKWOOD