Le Banquet Céleste – John Blow

Thwarted love, a passionate goddess and a tragic ending: *Venus & Adonis* brings out all the sensuality of the myth. This production breathes new life into this Baroque opera, which is as sensual as it is delicate.

Composed in the 17th century by John Blow, this rare work tells the story of the goddess Venus’s love for the young Adonis, whose tragic fate shatters the couple’s romantic passion. Not even Cupid, her son, can defy fate. Led by countertenor Damien Guillon, the ensemble restores the full expressive power of this score, in which choruses, dances and narrations flow together with unceasing sensuality. Period instruments, luminous voices and a keen sense of theatre breathe new life into this gem of the English Baroque, one of the first entirely sung operas in history, brought to life here through live illustrations by the illustrator Emma Bertin.

Practical information:
Running time: 1 hour 15 minutes.
Booking is strongly recommended, either online or at the Quartz box office.