Performer: Marcell Bakonyi

The challenges of Cherubini’s version of the Greek tragedy prove too much for the National Theatre to overcome.

Herheim’s maiden voyage in his new capacity as Intendant confirms his ability to deftly negotiate a less-than-straightforward work with care and ambition and add his own voice enthusiastically to the mix.

The music, a combination of Italian-sounding melodies, German instrumentation and Hugarian dotted rhythms, was remarkably captivating.