Henry Purcell's Dido and Aeneas in a concert version - Dziedziniec Arkadowy
duration 90 min.
August 30, 2025,
20:00
Purcell at the Wawel Castle. An opera that will sound different from anything
Purcell at the Wawel Castle.
As early as the end of August, the arcade courtyard of the Wawel Royal Castle will become the stage for a unique musical event. On two evenings: 29 and 30 August 2025, Henry Purcell’s opera Dido and Aeneas will be performed there in a concert version. This is one of the most important Baroque operas – short but poignant, focusing on emotion and drama.
Purcell’s work will be performed by the acclaimed French ensemble Le Poème Harmonique, specialising in historically faithful interpretations of early music. The concert will be conducted by Vincent Dumestre, a conductor and lute player known for his exceptional artistic sensitivity and expressive interpretations of Baroque works.
Dido and Aeneas is an opera based on a story taken from Virgil’s Aeneid. It is based on the story of the Queen of Carthage and the Trojan hero. Purcell used this myth to compose music that is intense and moving, using simple means but with a great emotional charge. Le Poème Harmonique will play this work without theatrical staging – in a concert version where sound, interpretation and contact with space will be at the forefront.
And the space will be unique. Arcade courtyard of the Wawel Castle is one of the most characteristic sites in Kraków – a place that witnessed many historical events and creates a unique atmosphere. Juxtaposed with the drama of Dido and Aeneas, this architectural setting takes on a new dimension.
TICKETS
reduced ticket 140 zł
available for: persons under 18, students (on production of ID), retirees and seniors over 65
regular ticket 200 zł
