When Written on Skin had its premiere at the 2012 Festival d'Aix-en-Provence, conducted by George Benjamin himself, it received a standing ovation. The opera's arrival at Covent Garden in 2013 was eagerly anticipated, and provided audiences with the opportunity to experience the work of two of Britain's greatest living artists. Benjamin previously collaborated with playwright Martin Crimp on Into the Little Hill, a magical retelling of the Pied Piper fairytale, and for this new work they joined forces with acclaimed stage director Katie Mitchell. For all three, the production marked their main-stage debut at the Royal Opera House.

The tale, inspired by a medieval legend, tells of an ill-fated troubadour, drawn into a liaison with an innocent maiden. But they are observed by the jealous eye of her protector, who wreaks a shocking revenge on the young couple.

Protector Christopher Purves
Agnès Barbara Hannigan
First Angel/Boy Bejun Mehta
Second Angel/Marie Victoria Simmonds
Third Angel/John Allan Clayton

Royal Opera Chorus
Orchestra of the Royal Opera House

Text Martin Crimp
Conductor George Benjamin
Director Katie Mitchell

Recorded live at the Royal Opera House, March 2013