Amanda Holloway

The ingredients are all there – now the first night is over, the lovers must relax and start working as a team.

Britten’s all-male opera demands character singing of the highest quality, and this production highlights British male talent spanning three decades. From the peerless Clive Bayley as wise old Dansker, to the wide-eyed Novice of Sam Furness, everyone makes their mark in this motley crew.

Not everything in this frantic production illuminates the opera, but it’s a thrilling ride thanks to the excellent singing.

Kosky says he spent his budget on these steps, designed by Katrin Lea Tag, so they need to work hard for the money. They do.

Under the baton of bel canto expert Michele Mariotti, the chorus and orchestra relish Donizetti’s lively score and harp and flute both have fine solo moments.

The London Philharmonic Orchestra makes a virtue of this feast of musical styles under their eager young conductor, Cornelius Meister.