#Boston Early Music Festival #Reinhard Keiser #Octavia

North American Premiere of Reinhard Keiser's 'Octavia' by Boston Early Music Festival

The renowned Boston Early Music Festival (BEMF) is set to dazzle opera enthusiasts with the North American premiere of Reinhard Keiser's baroque opera Octavia, originally composed in 1705 for the Hamburg Opera. Under the helm of GRAMMY-winning directors, this fully staged performance will unfold from June 8 to 15, 2025, at the prestigious Emerson Cutler Majestic Theatre in Boston, MA. This weeklong event promises not only to showcase magnificent music but also to capture the tumultuous tale of Empress Octavia, who faces betrayal by her increasingly unstable husband, Nero.

A Story of Power and Resilience

Octavia presents a poignant narrative of emotional complexity set against the backdrop of political strife in ancient Rome. The opera illustrates how the virtuous Octavia navigates her tumultuous relationship while Rome teeters on the edge of rebellion. Audiences will witness captivating performances, complete with opulent stagecraft and rich orchestration, that breathe life into this compelling story of love, betrayal, and the struggle for power.

BEMF's celebration of early music will include four performances of Octavia, aligned with a broader Festival Week dedicated to exploring the charms and intricacies of early music. With an extraordinary lineup of performers and creative talents, this festival positions itself as a major cultural event for Boston and beyond.

Creative Team and Production

The ambitious project is guided by an esteemed creative team including Musical Directors Paul O'Dette and Stephen Stubbs, alongside acclaimed Stage Director Gilbert Blin. Their combined expertise promises to deliver an operatic feast characterized by beautiful visuals and stunning musical performances. The production will feature breathtaking sets designed by Alexander McCargar, complemented by period-inspired costumes crafted by Anna Kjellsdotter. Additionally, the artistic elements are orchestrated by Lighting Designer Kelly Martin, showcasing a harmonious blend of artistry and performance.

As Lauded as it is ambitious, Octavia will bring to the stage not just singers and musicians, but also a myriad of characters such as philosophers, clowns, and spirits that weave through the narrative, enriching the opera's vibrant tapestry. The cast is led by the luminous GRAMMY-nominated soprano Emőke Baráth in the title role while featuring notable talents such as Douglas Ray Williams as Nero and Aaron Sheehan.

Festival Details and Ticket Information

BEMF operates under the mission of celebrating early music in innovative ways, making it a preeminent figure in this genre. This year's festival will witness four scheduled performances on June 8, 11, 13, and 15, 2025. Tickets are priced from $30 to $250, expanding access for all who wish to engage with this beautiful art form.

Tickets and subscription packages can be secured through the BEMF Box Office by contacting 617-661-1812 or by visiting their official website at BEMF.org.

As a testament to its longstanding reputation, the Boston Early Music Festival has earned the title of the