‘At the Royal Academy of Music... a staging of Handel’s Ariodante, directed by Olivia Fuchs and conducted from the keyboard by David Bates, demonstrated the current strength of the UK’s baroque opera tradition.…a moving, committed performance, with vigorous chorus work and punchy but subtle orchestral playing.'
★★★★ Observer – read the full review
'The Royal Academy of Music's production of Handel's Ariodante was in another class... the result wouldn't have looked out of place on a professional stage.'
The Spectator – read the full review
'Clara Orif played an earnest Ginevra, the top of her voice shining and her coloratura bubbling like vocal champagne. Both her and Angharad Rowlands in the role of Ariodante were a picture of youthful sincerity, while Charles Cunliffe brought a great gravity to his role as the King of Scotland, with warmth in every corner of his voice.'
★★★★ Opera Now
‘With the happy combination of David Bates and Olivia Fuchs as conductor and director – and with the finest student singers – this performance at RAM was full of moments to savour.’
★★★★ Plays to See – read the full review
'The expansive range of Handel’s vocal writing and the challenges posed by those rapid runs and florid ornaments didn’t unnerve the cast who, unanimously, sang and acted with total commitment.'
Opera Today – read the full review
'Stylishly modern and exploring gender boundaries, this was a production that took its energy from the sheer youth of the performers.'
Planet Hugill – read the full review