Long live the Queen….

Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas*

Saturday August 10 @ 6:00pm Dinner/ 7:30pm Show

Sunday August 11 @ 3:00pm Show Only

Location

Central Illinois Ballet Black Box Theater

5201 W. War Memorial Drive Suite 440

Peoria, Illinois 61615

*This production is a collaboration between MIOpera and the Central Illinois Ballet.

Synopsis

ACT I
Dido, queen of Carthage, cannot bring herself to admit her love for the Trojan prince Aeneas, a guest at her court; he is soon to resume his journey in search of a site for a new city to replace Troy. Her friend and lady-in-waiting, Belinda and her courtiers persuade Dido to confess her love and the act ends with rejoicing as Dido and Aeneas leave the festivities to be alone together.

ACT II
Disguised as courtiers, a jealous sorcerer and her followers stay behind at Dido’s court to plot Dido’s demise and the capturing of Carthage. Their plan is to "conjure up a storm" and separate the lovers. While separated, Aeneas will be visited by a spirit, disguised as Mercury, who will command Aeneas to leave Dido and go fulfill his destiny. Meanwhile, Dido and Aeneas, having spent the night together, are being entertained in a grove by Belinda and all the courtiers. A storm arises and the lovers are separated; and the witches’ spirit appears to command Aeneas to leave Carthage and Dido.

ACT III
At the shipping docks, Aeneas's men are preparing to leave. The witches gloat over their victory and sing of their delight. Back at court, Dido has been informed of her lover's planned departure and seeks Belinda's counsel. The queen confronts Aeneas, silences his excuses and dismisses him. In her despair Dido laments over losing Aeneas’ love and decides that it is better to be lost to death than to live.

Accompanied by the MIOpera Chamber Orchestra 

Stage Director: Tracy Marie Koch/ MIOpera

Conductor: Dr. Dennis Gotkowski/MIOpera

Choreography: Jesse Williams/Central Illinois Ballet

Running time one (1) hour