THE RAPE OF LUCRETIA
directed by Hans Nieuwenhuis
conducted by Somtow Sucharitkul
(abundant free parking at Old Siam Plaza nearby)

Bangkok Opera's first production to be staged at the historic Chalerm Krung Theatre is Benjamin Britten's The Rape of Lucretia, a masterpiece in miniature.

Set during the turbulent beginnings of the Roman Republic in the 5th century BC, this is a story of corruption, moral outrage and political upheaval about a crime that destroyed an empire. Avant-garde Dutch director Hans Nieuwenhuis has completely rethought the opera and reset it during the second Roman Empire — the Italian fascist era — while at the same time ensuring that it reflects today's most vital social issues — political corruption and the empowerment of women.

Ellen van Beek, last seen in Bangkok as Benjakai in Somtow's Ayodhya, plays the tormented Lucretia, who strives to live up to an idealized vision of womanly purity but is finally driven to suicide.

The cast includes members from Russia, Japan, and the United States as well as the Netherlands, while the chamber ensemble of the Siam Philharmonic provides accompaniment.

Rehearsals for this international production have been taking place in the Netherlands. After opening in Bangkok, the production goes on to Hanoi on March 1 and 2, then plays in Europe next year.

Call Thai Ticketmaster (02) 262-3456 or the Bangkok Opera (02) 663-3236 for reservations. Box seats and optimum stalls seats are 2,500 baht. Other seats available at 500, 1000, and 1500 baht. Reserve tickets online at www.thaiticketmaster.com.