DIDO AND AENEAS

Purcell’s opera tells the tragic love story of Dido, Queen of Carthage, and Aeneas, Prince of Troy. It was written between 1683 and 1688, probably for the English court. Dido and Aeneas are in love. But Dido has a sworn enemy: a sorceress, who conspires with her companions, the Enchantresses, to drive a wedge between the two. Her aim is to destroy Dido, and Carthage with her. In this work the Enchantresses, who take great delight in destruction, have a distinctive singing style, and the choir plays a major role .

Dido and Aeneas is one of the most important operas of the Baroque period. The choir and soloists of Chorus Juventus give us a semi-dramatic performance of the piece.

Presented by: Vienna Boys’ Choir Association (High School Senior Class)