Performer: James Hurley

James Hurley directs a new production of Puccini's neglected opera to close Opera North's Green Season. 

L’Ospedale sounds like it should be a newly written opera about the NHS, but actually, it's a 350 year old piece. It makes for an hour's delectable light operatic entertainment.

When the king of the gods falls head over heels in love with you, seriously bad stuff happens. If you're a Handelian soprano like Semele, however, it happens very tunefully and in a thoroughly pleasant, elegant and cheerful manner for the whole evening.If you're confused as to the difference between opera and oratorio, Semele is the perfect aid to your confusion.