Baroque Summer School participants, directed by Laurence Cummings
Cambridge Early Music’s 2026 Baroque Summer School performs Purcell’s semi-opera Dioclesian. Conducted by Laurence Cummings and choreographed by Mary Collins and Kath Waters. Premiered in 1690, the opera follows the story of Diocles, a foot-soldier in the Roman army who has been prophesied to become Emperor after he kills a mighty boar… A reflection of the universal struggle between love and duty, the opera explores the power of prophecy and the corruption of ambition.
Purcell’s Dioclesian was widely acclaimed at the time of its premiere; and was performed for visiting dignitaries well into the 18th century before slipping from recognition. It is a shining example of the joint power of composition, choreography and writing – with each of the elements: music, dance and speech complimenting each other. Purcell’s music was composed for an adaptation by Thomas Betterton of the play Prophetess – which was co-written by John Fletcher and Phillip Massinger in the 1620s (published in 1647). Thomas Betterton was a leading actor and playwright during the Restoration and was a favourite of Charles II. Over the course of his long career, Betterton is responsible for many of the innovations that have helped to shape the tradition of English Theatre over the centuries, amid the chaos of William III’s invasion of England.
The programme will also include music by Purcell and his contemporaries which places the semi-opera in context.
Our Baroque course is offered in collaboration with the Academy of Ancient Music (AAM). Laurence Cummings, our course director, is the Music Director at AAM and all of our instrument tutors are principals of their sections at AAM. They all work both as teachers and performers.
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Palestrina & Bach
The Marian Consort with the English Cornett and Sackbut Ensemble
Thu 16 Apr 2026 19:30 free to £40.00
Trinity College Chapel