Alcina – Handel

‘Amanda Holden’s crisp and lucid translation was almost entirely audible: with diction as sharp as this there really is no case for surtitles or amplification at the Coliseum.’
Daily Telegraph

‘The fantasy and sparkle are heightened by the new English translation of Amanda Holden, crisp and witty…’
Guardian

This translation was commissioned by English National Opera for David McVicar’s production during the 1999/2000 season. The first performances were conducted by Charles Mackerras, the first revival by Richard Hickox. The cast included Joan Rodgers, Sarah Connolly, Christine Rice and Toby Spence.

In 2000 ENO received the Olivier award for Outstanding Achievement in Opera for its production standards and especially for championing Handel; their previous Handel productions at the Coliseum were Julius Caesar (1979), Xerxes (1985) and  Ariodante (1993)

Other productions include:
Opera Theatre Company, Eire 2010

Toby Spence, Christine Rice & Majella Cullagh
in Alcina: Catherine Ashmore


Aria – Tornami a vagheggiar

MORGANA

Come take me in your arms, come feast upon my charms,
this ever faithful soul longs for you only.

I’ve given you my heart and, faithful from the start,
I never could be cruel or leave you lonely.
(da capo)


Aria – Verdi prati, selve amene

RUGGIERO

Verdant pastures, leafy woodlands,
all your beauty will decay.
Perfumed flowers, clear flowing rivers,
though you invite me and delight me,
tis your fate to fade away.

Verdant pastures, leafy woodlands,
soon your beauty will decay;
What I loved and longed to cherish
is as dust, destined to perish
and return to barren clay.

see also:
Recordings: Elizabeth Futral recital disc