“The simple and clear designs, by takis, cleverly elucidate the incompatibility of the earthly and the celestial, and the destruction that is unleashed when these realms interact.” — Opera Today, Claire Seymour
“The designs by takis are simple but effective: a central light-box acts as platform, bed and scenery on an often bare stage with few props, and Jake Wiltshire’s lighting does much of the work in creating mood and atmosphere.” — Bachtrack, Matthew Rye
“Within that framework of suitably slick designs (Takis) and telling lighting (Jake Wiltshire) the story unfolds with clarity and confidence.” — Seen and Heard International, Mark Berry
Semele | 2018
Handel’s secular oratorio about the mortal woman who demands to see Jupiter in his divine form—with fatal consequences. Directed by Olivia Fuchs with designs by takis, this production featured conductor Laurence Cummings leading the baroque score. Based on Ovid’s Metamorphoses, the work contains some of Handel’s most sensuous music.
takis’ design captured the mythological world where gods and mortals intersect, supporting both the comedy of Jupiter’s domestic arrangements with jealous wife Juno and the tragedy of Semele’s destructive ambition. The opera’s most famous aria “Where’er you walk” remains one of baroque music’s beloved melodies.
Creative Team: Director: Olivia Fuchs | Designer: takis | Conductor: Laurence Cummings | Composer: George Frideric Handel