The Devil to Pay on Brook Street
An adaptation by Nick Harrison of a short story by Daniel Defoe
Directed by Martin Parr
Cast
Faustina Bordoni: Sian Thomas
Maid: Sara Kestelman
Mrs. Douglas: Joanna David
Esther: Ciara Hendrick (mezzo soprano)
Handel House, London
20th February – 1st March, 2015
It is Midnight on the 13 April, 1759.
Former Royal Academy of Music sensation, the imposing Italian diva, Faustina Bordoni, has returned to England for the first time in decades to reignite her London career, with Handel’s assistance.
But the maestro’s health is fast failing. It’s late. The house is quiet.
As Handel’s servants tend his bedside, Faustina, tired and tetchy after an arduous journey, faces an anxious wait to see the ailing genius – with only a lowly maidservant for company.
What follows is both unexpected and disquieting…
Handel House is delighted to present a brand new play with music by Handel, in the historic Rehearsal and Performance Room.
Based on a little known short story by Handel’s contemporary, Daniel Defoe, it has a surprisingly eerie resonance with the story of two infamous sopranos in Handel’s life, whilst at the same time being a wonderful opportunity to explore an imaginary meeting between two formidable women.
Reviews
“Sian Thomas makes Bordoni a real diva…a performance that matches her gorgeous gown and florid hat”
Howard Loxton
“Sara Kestelman’s strong sense of integrity…these actresses give close up performances that grip the attention” – “Delightful and very intimate production”
British Theatre Guide
