From Sun 30 Mar to Sat 5 Apr, the RNCM rounds off their incredible spring season with a performance of Benjamin Britten’s timelessly resonant operatic take on Henry James’ legendary short story, Owen Wingrave.
Originally commissioned by the BBC and premiered as a television opera in 1971 – at the enthusiastic behest of then-commissioner, Sir David Attenborough – Britten’s prescient masterpiece follows the tormented life of the titular young pacifist who, having defied his family and their ancient military heritage, is forced to endure a life of pariahdom and humiliation before an abrupt, dubious death.
Written by Britten with the goal of introducing opera into the wider public consciousness, Owen Wingrave breathes new life into the absorbing tale of courage, family, self-determination and the inescapable cycle of history, with a foreboding yet poignant score which masterfully conjures the universally relatable inner conflict between conviction and expectation. The Ballad Singer recounts the tragic history of Paramore, the seemingly cursed family house at the centre of the story, while Owen’s achingly beautiful aria brings heartbreaking depth to his lonely yet steadfast faith in peace.
Can one act of defiance shatter generations of tradition, or will history always find a way to repeat itself?
Book tickets below.
Sun 30 Mar - Sat 5 Apr, 3pm, 7.30pm, RNCM, 124 Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9RD, From £26
rncm.ac.uk
- Words:
- Wolf McFarlane
- Published on:
- Thu 27 Mar 2025
