This extraordinary opera recounts the tragic tale of a hero literally poisoned by the jealousy of his misguided wife. In this modern-dress production, punctuated by Greek references, the action takes place on a sand-covered, amphitheatre-style arena where the chorus are used as Handel originally intended, to embody the people of Trachis and comment on the action.

The vocal and instrumental ensemble Les Arts Florissants is one of the most respected early music groups in Europe. Dedicated to the performance of Baroque music on original instruments, the ensemble was founded in 1979 by the Franco-American harpsichordist and conductor William Christie. Together with the world-class director Luc Bondy, they have created a passionate and lively production that has already wowed audiences in France at the Aix-en-Provence Festival in 2004.

Learn more about London operas within the West End.