About the Opera

Albert Herring received its premiere at Glyndebourne in 1947. In 1985 Sir Peter Hall’s masterly production was performed for the first time. With its minutely detailed period setting, it continues to delight Glyndebourne audiences.

Set in Loxford in Suffolk, the opera opens with the search for a virtuous girl for the office of May Queen. However, the impossibility of a successful outcome results in the election of a male youth of unquestionable chastity – Albert Herring. His unimpeachable character is immediately challenged when, during the celebration of his ‘coronation’, his lemonade is laced with something more potent. The ensuing drunkenness and dalliance causes Lady Billows to exclaim ‘You will pay for the sins of the flesh’ and like all great comedies, the opera almost tips into tragedy.

Britten and librettist Eric Crozier, poke fun at the very English hypocrisy, but the combination of wit, mockery and tenderness, make this one of the composer’s most admired works.

Allan Clayton will make his Glyndebourne debut in the role of Albert, and following his exciting debut in the 2006 Tour, Gérard Korsten will return to conduct the London Philharmonic Orchestra.

‘This show is a reminder of how stimulating a first-rate opera performance can be.’
Evening Standard