Performer: Franco Fagioli

An over-directed, but vivid staging demonstrating political rise and fall in Ancient Rome transported to the present day.

The biting wit of Vincenzo Grimani's libretto is well served by some knockout arias and excellent performances from a strong cast and the matchless Il pomo d'oro.

The problem with on-stage vulgarity is that, while it might be sophisticated and knowing satire, it ends by being what it is parodying.

A star cast and red-hot conducting make for a memorable night at the Barbican.

The 2002 production of Handel’s masterpiece is revived with a solid cast under the baton of Riccardo Minasi.