Venus & Adonis

Audiences are invited to Venus & Adonis, a modern take on a classical Greek myth that would later become the first English opera. Composed by John Blow in the 1680’s and with a libretto by future countess and feminist icon Anne Finch, this early opera explores themes of love, grief, and infidelity. While Cupid complains of loose morals at court and in the countryside, Venus sends a reluctant Adonis to hunt a wild boar, goading him to be more manly. Early Music Access Project presents a semi-staged production of Venus & Adonis on Monday, May 23 at 7:30pm in Staunton’s iconic Blackfriars Playhouse.

This production features a baroque band made up of the finest period instrumentalists on the east coast, led by Artistic Director David McCormick. Co-director Ben Matus both sings and plays in the performance. Soprano Alyssa Weathersby stars as Venus and serves as stage director, bringing to the production a wealth of experience on both classical and musical theater stages. Baritone Harrison Hintzsche plays the role of Adonis and soprano Julie Bosworth is Cupid.

All seating is general admission; doors open at 7pm.

With the safety of our audience in mind, we ask that you read and observe the following COVID-19 guidelines:

• All patrons must show proof of vaccination at the door.
• All patrons must remain masked while inside the performance venue. Please note that the vocalists on stage will be unmasked during the performance.
• Patrons who have recently tested positive for COVID-19, have had a recent exposure to COVID-19, or are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 should not attend this concert.