Performer: Jessica Cale

The composer’s final opera is virtually impossible to stage comfortably, but Sir Mark Elder makes a convincing case for more regular outings of its beautiful music.

Laurence Cummings and John Caird’s second Garsington exploration of the operas of Monteverdi brims with wonderfully playing and singing in an attractive setting.

Mark-Anthony Turnage and Rachael Hewer update Edith Nesbit’s children's novel as a spy action thriller, with an exciting score and a strong cast of singers.

Eloise Lally shifts the Romeo and Juliet love story into New York mafia families. Jessica Cale and Samantha Price provide blissful bel canto as the star-crossed lovers.

Masaaki Suzuki leads the Choir and Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment through Bach's Christmas Oratorio across two evenings at the Southbank Centre. 

Harmonious images and geometric designs frame an effective staging and well sung performance of Monteverdi's last opera.