Making its ENO premiere, this critically acclaimed modern opera set 500 years ago tells the story that still resonates today. With hostile forces on every side, Mary I of Scotland attempts to secure a happy future for herself and her country.

One of Scotland’s most esteemed composers, Thea Musgrave captures the drama in a thrilling, atmospheric score rooted in the rough-hewn Highlands of Elizabethan times.

Overview

Caught between her drunken husband, her scheming half-brother, and her untrustworthy lover, Mary I of Scotland must find a way to protect her country and her Catholic faith.

Each new conversation reveals a treacherous twist as she is betrayed or misled by those closest to her. Until finally a terrible miscalculation causes her to fall into the arms of her Protestant cousin, Elizabeth I.

Score

Thea Musgrave writes music and libretto that is as beautifully crafted for voices as for the drama. Her orchestral textures are deftly detailed, at times evoking 16th century Scotland.

This provides the backdrop for characters who are both musically as well as dramatically believable while cleverly building tension. As critic Harold Rosenthal notes, Musgrave’s music is both original and accessible.

Creators & Singers

Conducting this modern masterpiece is Joana Carniero, who makes a welcome ENO return after she conducted The Handmaid’s Tale in 2022 and 2024.

Soprano Heidi Stober will bring Musgrave’s radiant melodies to life on stage as Queen Mary. She will be joined by two former ENO Harewood Artists Alex Otterburn as James Stewart, Earl of Moray and Nicky Spence as James Hepburn, Earl of Bothwell. Also making a welcome return is bass Alastair Miles as Lord Gordon.

Libretto by Thea Musgrave based on Amalia Elguera’s play Moray.