Performer: Alison Chitty

It was fitting that one of The Royal Opera's most loyal servants, Renato Balsadonna – Chorus Director of the Royal Opera Chorus from 2004-16 – was in the pit for this anniversary performance, leading an often thrilling musical account. 

Forced to shift to online for the third episode of its Ring cycle, Göteborg Opera delivers absorbing new production by Stephen Langridge.

This was a performance that had you lickng your lips for Santi’s return next season with Zeffirelli’s time-honoured take on Aida.

There’s nothing new or inventive about Leigh’s revived production, which in itself is not a crime, but neither is there an abundance of energy; it's all a bit nice. 

Despite an excellent cast and some glorious singing, Stephen Langridge's oft-revived 2012 production of Puccini's Madama Butterfly never quite takes flight. 

Liudmyla Monstyrska and John Relyea turn in strong performances and Plácido Domingo confirms his hallowed status, but Daniele Abbado's direction remains unappealing in this first revival.