In this powerful double bill, two extraordinary works of the 20th century are brought together in a shared world of ritual, mystery and psychological intensity.

In Bluebeard’s Castle, Judith leaves everything behind to be with the enigmatic Duke Bluebeard. She soon discovers his home is filled with locked doors and as she demands each one be opened, she uncovers not only the secrets of his past, but something far more unsettling. As darkness gathers, love and fear become impossible to separate.

In the second half, the same stark setting becomes the ancient city of Thebes for Oedipus Rex. A plague grips the land, and its king is determined to uncover the truth behind it. As his search intensifies, he is forced to confront a destiny he cannot escape. What begins as a quest for answers, becomes a devastating revelation.

Gothic, atmospheric and visually striking, this unified staging draws powerful connections between two timeless myths.

Featuring music by Hildegard Von Bingen

Conductor Lydia Yankovskaya
Director Joe Hill-Gibbins

Cast Nathan Berg, Peter Hoare, Christine Rice

Original production of Bluebeard’s Castle English National Opera