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A little less conversation: After Sex @Arcolatheatre

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According to research, millennials in rich countries are having sex less these days. But they were prepared to talk more about it. So, it is no surprise to see a story about what happens when a series of no-strings-attached encounters start to become attachments. And the conversations arising from it. Such is the premise of After Sex, Siofra Dromgoole’s two-hander of the conversations afterwards. It’s not particularly sexy or erotic, and the snappy pacing and short scenes sometimes make you wish they stayed longer to finish the conversation. Nevertheless, it is still a funny and, at times, bittersweet picture of single lives in the big city. It’s currently playing at the Arcola Theatre .  He is bi and works for her in an office job. She is neither ready for a commitment nor to let the office know what’s happening. He isn’t prepared to tell his mum there’s someone special in his life. He doesn’t speak to his dad, so his mum is his world. It’s a perfect relationship/arrangement. Or so it

Old doge: I Due Foscari @TheRoyalOpera

Plácido Domingo in I due Foscari © ROH/Catherine Ashmore, 2014
The Royal Opera's production of I Due Foscari which opened last week is a chance to see Plácido Domingo in an age-appropriate role.

Verdi's opera is intriguing for its use of leitmotifs for each of the principal roles, but lacks much dramatic fire, other than to see the predictable  tragedy of an ageing ruler weakened and lose everything.

Thankfully it is short but it is also give much more interest with some star power and seems a perfect vehicle for Domingo.

When his voice was at his strongest, you could also be forgiven for thinking he was back in tenor territory with its rich and bright sound. And at 73, it is an event to watch see such an experienced master at work.



Plácido Domingo and Francesco Meli in I due Foscari © ROH/Catherine Ashmore, 2014The star power was shared with Francesco Meli as his condemned son Jacopo, and Maria Agresta as Jacopo's wife.

Maria Agresta and Plácido Domingo in I due Foscari © ROH/Catherine Ashmore, 2014
There was plenty of passion in their voices and some sublime subtle harmonies with the three principals together.

A night to remember for the performances and the fine music making, even if the opera is probably an acquired taste.

I Due Foscari is a co production with Los Angeles Opera, Palau De Les Arts Reina Sofía, Valencia and Theater An Der Wien, Vienna.

It runs for five more performances up to 2 November. Tickets are currently available.

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Photo credit: Production photos by Catherine Ashmore

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