Performer: Gabriel Seawright

Erlanger's fractured and clichéd opera isn't helped by confused direction, although soprano Andreea Soare is nothing short of magnificent as the heroine. 

Janáček's woodland fairy tale proved a superb ensemble choice for the festival's Emerging Artists program.

A fresh, yet traditional Magic Flute at Longborough uses puppetry to bring an atmosphere of fairytale onto the stage, with fine singing from a strong cast.