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The Yellow Sofa

An intimate opera by Glyndebourne’s first composer-in-residence Julian Philips explores infidelity, jealousy and revenge.

Introduction

The ordered life of Godofredo Alves is turned upside-down when he discovers his wife Ludovina in the arms of his best friend Machado on his favourite yellow sofa. Tormented, he seeks to restore his honour.

Background

The Yellow Sofa was given its premiere at the 2009 Glyndebourne Festival as part of the Jerwood Chorus Development Scheme. It is based on the short story ‘Alves and Co’ by one of Portugal's best-loved writers Eça de Queirós. The destructive power of sexual jealousy is explored in a production of great invention and humour, which sees a yellow sofa given human characterization and take centre stage.

The Glyndebourne Tour Orchestra brings The Yellow Sofa to the Linbury Studio Theatre in a staging by Frederic Wake-Walker.

Please note:

This production is unsuitable for children

Running time

About 1 hours 20 minutes | No intervals

Language

Sung in English

Credits

DirectorFrederic Wake-Walker

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