Independent Opera at Sadler’s Wells follows on from its highly acclaimed 2006 production of Handel’s Orlando with two one-act operas by the notable British composer Elizabeth Maconchy. Both operas are wonderfully effective pieces of music theatre and ideal vehicles for the UK’s best young operatic talent.

The Sofa is a whacky and surreal comedy involving a young rake, his wayward girlfriend, a vengeful Grandmother and a magic sofa. The Departure, poignant and sinister by turns, makes for a stark contrast.

These works have a particular resonance with Sadler’s Wells, both having been premiered here in the 1950s and early 1960s.

Dominic Wheeler conducts a superb cast headed by soprano Sarah Tynan. The production is directed by Alessandro Talevi, Independent Opera's 2007 Artistic Director.