Dido and Aeneas, the ancient Roman myth of love and betrayal, was recounted 2000 years ago in Virgil’s Aeneid – and still resonates today. The Trojan hero Aeneas lands on the shores of Carthage, where the beautiful and proud Queen Dido reigns. Just after winning her love, Aeneas suddenly departs – summoned by the gods. Was it destiny or betrayal? No composer has evoked this question with more poignancy than Henry Purcell, whose renowned 17th-century opera Dido & Aeneas is a gem of the baroque repertoire. The program includes sparkling instrumental dances from Purcell’s King Arthur and The Fairy-Queen.
PRE-CONCERT CONVERSATION with baritone Jeffrey Strauss and Managing Director (countertenor) David Walker, 6:45pm – Evanston only
Generously sponsored by JOYCE CHELBERG
Saturday Night in Evanston: Celebrate the start of the 2025-2026 Season with the musicians with refreshments following the concert. Open to all.
SEASON OPENING CELEBRATION! Raise your glass to the start of Apollo’s Fire’s 2025-26 Season! Following Dido & Aeneas, join the musicians for a festive post-concert reception in the Chicago Cultural Center’s breathtaking Rotunda. Enjoy prosecco and a variety of fine drinks, paired with artisan cheeses, fresh fruit, and sweets, while AF’s lutenists provide a luminous musical backdrop. RSVP today!
