Jephtha, Royal Opera, November 2023
Posted on 11 November 2023In this Biblical tale, Jephtha is recalled from exile to defend the Israelites against the Ammonites. He is promised the role of permanent chieftain if he succeeds, and in order to ensure victory promises God he will sacrifice the first thing he sees on his return, which turns out to be his own loving daughter. This leads to the famous aria, “Waft her, angels, through the skies” — see my review in The Article.