A Midsummer Night's Dream was Benjamin Britten's seventh major opera and
had its premiere at Aldeburgh in 1960. Britten and his partner Peter
Pears prepared a condensed version of Shakespeare's much-loved comedy
for the libretto, using (with the exception of a single line) only the
original text. In this newly commissioned guide, Andrew Plant explores
the genesis of the opera's composition, including passages of recently
published material from Britten's own correspondence. Philip Reed
examines the musical language of the opera and has prepared a detailed
thematic guide, while David Nice outlines many of the different
approaches to the work in productions that have taken place over the
last forty years. An essay by Philip Brett discusses how the opera
reflects the central issues in Britten's work. Finally, a unique article
is included which Britten himself wrote for the Observer immediately
preceding the work's premiere. The present edition also contains
twentyfive black-and-white and colour photographs, the full libretto, a
discography, DVD guide, bibliography and website guide. It will prove an
invaluable companion to opera-goers wanting to increase their
understanding and enjoyment of this magical work.