Ficha técnica

The Dragon of Wantley
A burlesque opera by John Frederick Lampe (1703-1751) after a libretto by Henry Carey (1689-1743)

Performances on June 20, 22, 23 and 24

Palace Theatre, New Palace, Sanssouci, Potsdam, Germany

The Dragon - Nicholas Warden
Gubbins - Michael Bundy
Margery - Joana Seara
Mauxalinda - Tamsin Dalley
Moore of Moore Hall - Daniel Auchincloss

Akademie für Alte Musik Berlin

Musical direction: Gary Cooper
Stage direction: Jack Edwards
Stage design: Robin Linklater
Costumes: Ashley Shairp

A co-production of Musikfestspiele Potsdam Sanssouci and Opera Restor’d London

The comic opera of John Frederick Lampe, a born German, was first performed on May 10, 1737 at the Little Theatre in the Haymarket, London. An immediate sensation, it was quickly transferred to Covent Garden. It was such a success that it held the stage for nearly 50 years and thus became the most popular comic opera after the »Beggar's Opera« in 18th century England. »The Dragon of Wantley is also a great parody of the Italian operatic staging, revealing supreme mastery. It is very »English«, at the same time very »down-to earth«, and full of British humour. It can also be read as a satire on contemporary politics and moral conditions.