Performer: Christopher Ventris

Despite theatrical drawbacks, this Wozzeck is heartily recommend due to Yannick Nézet-Séguin's staggering understanding of all facets of Berg's score.

The backstory doesn’t bode well: three fugitive criminals decide to found a city that will pander to society’s most vital needs: food, sex, warfare, and alcohol.

Semyon Bychkov turned in a magisterial account of Mussorgsky's rugged score, aided and abetted by some strong vocal performances.

With its monumental sets designed by Anish Kapoor, Pierre Audi’s abstract Parsifal at Dutch National Opera is spectacular, led by the excellent Christopher Ventris, with Günther Groissböck shining in his role debut as Gurnemanz. 

A feast for the eyes in Zurich, but is the visual stimulation in Herbert Fritsch's production of Der Freischütz just too much?

Singing, orchestral playing and scenic portrayal all combine to make a highly memorable second instalment of Wagner's Ring.