For the first time, the original 1934 version of Shostakovich’s modern masterpiece enters the repertory of The Royal Opera. An astonishing score of raw and direct energy, its vivid orchestral colours and driving power complement an intense tale of deprivation, violence and black comedy, but ultimately despair. Katerina is provoked by the purposeless and suffering of her life to adultery with Sergei. When her father-in-law Boris finds out, it prompts a series of events that escalate out of control as he is poisoned and Katerina with Sergei kills her own husband. But happiness in freedom for the two lovers is not to last, and the arrival of the police at their wedding celebrations marks the turn towards final disaster.

Sung In Russian with English surtitles

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