Artiste: Louis Hurley

A rare 17th-century English Baroque spectacular, designed to delight the Restoration crowd, is given a contemporary twist in Sydney. 

Eccles' version of Semele would be a real treat to hear anywhere, but especially so for Perth (Western Australia), from the newish Baroque company HIP displaying a wealth of young talent. 

Although abbreviated, Pinchgut Opera's production of Handel's Rinaldo makes a powerful dramatic impact and exemplifies high musical values, with excellent orchestral playing and consistently fine singing.