The spectacular opening production of London’s newly restored Royal Opera House, first broadcast live on BBC television in December 1999, brings a riot of colour to Verdi’s great Shakespearean masterpiece.

Bryn Terfel as Sir John Falstaff and Barbara Frittoli as Alice Ford lead a star cast with the orchestra and chorus of the Royal Opera House under the direction of Bernard Haitink, in a spectacular new production by Graham Vick with vibrant medieval designs by Paul Brown.

PLUS
Meet the backstage crew in a fascinating 10-minute tour of the behind-the-scenes working of the Royal Opera House, as they prepare for this opening gala performance

Stage Director Graham Vick on his Production of Falstaff

Illustrated synopsis of the opera, presented by James Naughtie

Bryn Terfel talks to Eamonn Holmes

REVIEWS
‘a true joy to the eye as Bryn Terfel dazzles us with stature, voice and gesture…’
Diapason (Translation)

‘The magnificent voice, personality and acting ability of Welsh baritone Bryn Terfel combine for a vivid portrait of Falstaff. There are other outstanding performances by Bernadette Manca di Nissa, Barbara Frittoli, Roberto Frontali, Kenneth Tarver, and Desiree Rancatore. Through, Music Director Bernard Haitink brilliant conveys the zest and magic of Verdi’s score.’
The Patriot Ledger (USA)

‘deliciously comic production…vividly filmed…The singers are on top form, dominated by
Terfel’s Falstaff…’
Musical Opinion