We did think the image above for the Czech opera Jen?fa, by Janá?ek, was too beautiful not to share. For a fashion magazine, it was easy to think it was connected to a beauty product.
   Jen?fa was performed at the Glyndebourne Festival before it begins touring in New Zealand in September. According to the release, ‘Jen?fa is an opera driven by strong female characters. It’s a gripping tale, a powerful statement of loss and redemption; raw and harrowing, yet compassionate and uplifting, and with music that is very individual, with a lyric beauty to it. With Glyndebourne comes pure pedigree, and this production, which has great depth and packs a phenomenal emotional punch, will deliver an unforgettable theatrical experience.
   ‘The role of Jen?fa is performed by French soprano Anne Sophie Duprels, acclaimed for her acting as well as her singing. New Zealand’s star dramatic soprano Margaret Medlyn performs the role of Kostelni?ka, while two exciting tenors, Tom Randle and Jamie Allen, play Laca and Števa respectively. The other star in New Zealand’s Medlyn family, mezzo-soprano Helen Medlyn, performs the role of Buryjovká. A large cast of entirely New Zealand singers are in supporting roles.’
   Jen?fa begins in Auckland at the Edge at Aotea Centre on September 20, 25 and 27 at 7.30 p.m., and September 23 at 6.30 p.m. It then goes to Wellington, performing October 11, 16 and 18 at 7.30 p.m. and October 14 at 6 p.m. at the St James. The opera is sponsored by Genesis Energy.

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