Footlights Society 2025/26 Programme
The Met's Sonnambula
Following triumphant Live in HD performances in Gounod’s Roméo et Juliette, Verdi’s La Traviata, and Donizetti’s Lucia di Lammermoor, Nadine Sierra summits another peak of the soprano repertoire as Amina, who sleepwalks her way into audiences’ hearts in Bellini’s poignant tale of love lost and found. In his new production, Rolando Villazón—the tenor who has embarked on a brilliant second career as a director—retains the opera’s original setting in the Swiss Alps but uses its somnambulant plot to explore the emotional and psychological valleys of the mind. Tenor Xabier Anduaga co-stars as Amina’s fiancé, Elvino, alongside soprano Sydney Mancasola as her rival, Lisa, and bass Alexander Vinogradov as Count Rodolfo. Riccardo Frizza takes the podium for one of opera’s most ravishing works, which will be transmitted live from the Met stage to cinemas on October 18.
The National Theatre's
Mrs Warren's Profession
Mrs. Warren's Profession is a provocative play by George Bernard Shaw that explores the themes of morality, society, and women's independence in the late 19th century. The story follows Vivie Warren, a young, educated woman who has been raised by her mother, Mrs. Kitty Warren, who had a career in the sex industry and now runs a chain of brothels in Europe.
As Vivie grapples with her mother's profession, she ultimately must decide between familial loyalty and her own principles. The play challenges the audience to reconsider conventional views on gender, work, and societal values, making it a timeless examination of the struggle for autonomy and self-definition.
The National Theatre's adaptation captures these essential themes with striking performances and a contemporary lens, bringing relevance to Shaw's insights in today's context.
RBO's La Fille mal Gardée
La Fille mal Gardée,a comedic ballet choreographed by Frederick Ashton, tells the charming story of Lise, a spirited farmer’s daughter, who is intent on marrying her true love, Colas. However, her mother, Madame Katt, wishes to arrange a match with the dull but wealthy Alain. Set in a picturesque rural landscape, the ballet features delightful characters and lively choreography.
Through a series of mischievous antics, mistaken identities, and enchanting dances, Lise and Colas navigate obstacles to secure their love. The production showcases vibrant folk dance, playful humour, and touching moments, leading to a joyous conclusion that celebrates true love and the triumph of happiness over social conventions.
The Met's La Bohème
Puccini's La Bohème is a poignant opera set in 19th-century Paris, following the lives of struggling artists. The story centres on the passionate romance between the poet Rodolfo and the seamstress Mimì, exploring themes of love, loss, and the fleeting nature of youth. As they navigate the joys and hardships of bohemian life, their relationship faces challenges from illness and socioeconomic struggles. The opera's deeply emotional moments culminate in a heartbreaking conclusion, capturing the bittersweet essence of love and the inevitability of loss.
The Met's Arabella
Richard Strauss's "Arabella" is an enchanting opera set in 19th-century Vienna, focusing on the beautiful Arabella and her quest for true love amidst societal expectations. Arabella is urged by her family to secure a wealthy suitor to solve their financial woes, but her heart belongs to the charming and mysterious Mandryka.
As Arabella navigates the complexities of love and social pressures, she faces challenges from various suitors, particularly the wealthy yet superficial Graf Zdenka. The narrative explores themes of love, identity, and authenticity, ultimately culminating in a romantic reunion between Arabella and Mandryka, celebrating true love's triumph over material desires. With lush orchestration and lyrical melodies, "Arabella" is a timeless tale of romance and self-discovery.
