Returning after three previous standing-room-only shows on the Early Music Guild's family series, this year the kids take center stage with the story of Alcina: Ruggiero is a knight destined for greatness, but when a hippogiff carries him away to an enchanted island, he meets the sorceress Alcina and becomes trapped. His girlfriend Bradamante disguises herself as a knight and comes to find him, with a magic ring that protects her from Alcina’s magic. A comedy of mistaken identities ensues as everyone – Alcina’s courtiers, Bradamante’s helper Melisso, and most importantly Ruggiero himself – tries to figure out what’s going on, all while trying to avoid being caught by one of Alcina’s spells. The adventurers’ predecessors have all been turned into rocks, bushes, and wild animals, which are all watching the proceedings in hope of rescue.

Our performance of this fantastical tale is a spoken play accompanied by songs, dances, and even a duel in Baroque style. The music is a pastiche from not one but two Alcina operas – by George Frederick Handel in early-18th century England and by the 17th century Italian composer Francesca Caccini – mixed with singable English choruses from other Handel works. Concept and music direction by Shulamit Kleinerman, stage direction by Carmen Metter, and orchestral leadership by violinist Tekla Cunningham. Stay tuned as the rest of our team develops!