Opera at Cutty Sark with Monteverdi Choir and Orchestras

Experience the drama of Henry Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas underneath Cutty Sark’s hull in this immersive production, which combines music, movement and staging. 

Based on Book IV of Virgil’s Aeneid, Dido and Aeneas explores desire, destiny and destruction. This groundbreaking opera was first performed in the 17th century and is known for its evocative arias. 

This concert brings Purcell’s Baroque masterpiece to life like never before. Directed by Andrew Staples and conducted by Jonathan Sells, the opera will be performed by the Monteverdi Choir and English Baroque Soloists – ensembles renowned for reimagining historical works. 

The night will also feature Purcell's Funeral Sentences, performed at the funeral of Queen Mary II. During her reign, she commissioned the Royal Hospital for Seamen at Greenwich, which provided a home for retired or injured naval veterans.

Expect the unique acoustic – and visual spectacle – of Cutty Sark’s Dry Dock to heighten the emotional depth of this concert. 

This event is suitable for 16+

About the ensembles

Monteverdi Choir

Founded in 1964 by Sir John Eliot Gardiner, the Monteverdi Choir is one of the world's greatest and most influential choirs. Through a combination of consummate technique and historically-informed performance practice, the Choir constantly strives to bring fresh perspectives, immediacy and drama to its performances.

In 2023, the Choir and the English Baroque Soloists performed at the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III. The Telegraph proclaimed, "If the Monteverdi Choir isn’t singing when I get to the gates of Heaven, I want my money back."

The Choir has released more than 150 recordings, and won numerous prizes. In 2024, the ensemble was named 'Best Choir' at the 2024 Oper! Awards, with the jury noting that, "At festivals, on concert tours and in their numerous recordings, this is an ensemble whose quality will always leave the listener speechless."

English Baroque Soloists

For more than 40 years, the English Baroque Soloists has been one of the most innovative period-instrument ensembles, consistently challenging the preconceptions of audiences around the world. 

Equally at home in chamber, symphonic and operatic repertoire, its distinctively warm and incisive playing is instantly recognisable in music ranging from Monteverdi to Mozart. 

Founded by Sir John Eliot Gardiner, the orchestra has performed at many of the world’s most prestigious venues, including Milan’s Teatro alla Scala, the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam and the Sydney Opera House.

Opera at Cutty Sark takes place in Cutty Sark's Dry Dock, located underneath the ship itself. Step-free access is available via lift.

There will be two performances taking place.

Timings

• Doors open for first performance: 6.30pm
• First performance starts: 7pm
• First performance ends: 8pm
• Doors open for second performance: 8.30pm
• Second performance starts: 9pm
• Second performance ends: 10pm

Seating

The seating for the concert will be below Cutty Sark in the Dry Dock.

• Seats closest to the performers (red tier 1) cost £80
• Seats in the middle (green tier 2) cost £60
• Seats at the rear (blue tier 3) cost £40

Facilities

Please note, neither Cutty Sark's cafe nor the cloakroom will be open during this evening concert.