The Hallé and Opera Rara: Offenbach's Barkouf

The Hallé
ENO Chorus
Opera Rara
Offenbach Barkouf

Paul Daniel conductor
Alistair McGowan narrator
Loïc Félix Bababeck
Mathias Vidal Saëb
François Piolino Kaliboul
Philippe Talbot Xaïloum
Anne-Catherine Gillet Maïma
Antoinette Dennefield Balkis
Katia Ledoux Périzade
Thibault de Damas Le grand Mogol

What happens when man’s best friend becomes head-of-state? Opera Rara and the Hallé team up once again to present Offenbach’s opera Barkouf, where a dog rules the day.

Step into the absurd political world of Offenbach’s Barkouf — a riotous opera where corruption runs wild, flattery is an art form and the only thing more dangerous than power are the incompetent politicians desperate to win it …

When a dog is made governor of the fictitious place of Lahore, laughter turns to applause as he rallies the people and proves that even the unlikeliest hero can change history. Filled with dazzling melodies, biting satire and boundless heart, Barkouf is a riotous romp through pomp, politics and power that is as relevant today as it was when it was first performed in 1860.

Opera Rara and the Hallé join forces with the English National Opera Chorus to present this rare gem for the first time in the UK in a concert performance at The Bridgewater Hall. Join us for a tail-wagging triumph of opera at its most unexpected!

Opera in three acts. Sung in French with English narration and surtitles. Age guidance: 8+

The Hallé in association with Opera Rara

Pre-Concert Talk – 3pm, on stage at The Bridgewater Hall
Join musicologist Dr Flora Willson in conversation with conductor Paul Daniel for an insight into Offenbach’s extraordinary and rarely performed Barkouf.

They’ll explore the opera’s colourful characters, satire and musical world, as well as the story behind bringing this remarkable work to the stage with Opera Rara, the Hallé and an exceptional cast.