Paris and Helen, an opera by Christoph W. Gluck

This opera depicts the mythological story of Paris, the Trojan prince, who is in Sparta after choosing Aphrodite as the fairest goddess over Hera and Athena. With Aphrodite's favor, Paris sacrifices to her and, encouraged by Erasto (Cupid in disguise), seeks the love of Helen. They meet in her palace, and both are captivated by each other's beauty. Helen invites Paris to judge an athletic contest, during which he sings of her beauty and reveals his intention to win her love. Initially dismissive, Helen begins to soften towards Paris after his desperate pleas and the intervention of Cupid. Despite Pallas Athene's warning of future sorrow, Paris and Helen prepare to depart for Troy together.

CAST

Sarah Larkworthy as Paris

Théodora Cottarel as Helen

Jocelyn Claire Thomas as Amore

Kristin Vogel as the Goddess, Athena

Elizabeth Galafa Ylaya as Calliope

Charles Lyon Stewart as Andreas

Daniel Ferguson as Nikolas

Admission: $25 advance, $30 at the door

Performed concert style with violin, flute, cello and piano.

Sung in Italian with supertitles in English and Italian.

Host or Publisher Puget Sound Concert Opera