Dramatic tales from a remarkable Baroque composer: In the Belly of the Beast is a thrilling new show from Mahogany Opera.

Élisabeth Jacquet de la Guerre was a composer from the Baroque era who very much deserves a revival: this translated set of three of her cantatas is an excellent way to contribute. Based on three biblical stories, they are full-blooded and confident explorations of creation, fate and sacrifice – big subjects, requiring big musical responses, which Jacquet de la Guerre delivers in style. As a Guardian review put it, these cantatas “speak about courage, violence and endurance in music that is both beautiful and bold”.  

In the Belly of the Beast is a brand new show, with the text translated by Toria Banks, and produced in partnership by Mahogany Opera, Dunedin Consort and Hera for UK performances in 2026. 

Dunedin Consort
Mahogany Opera
Carolyn Sampson soprano

Jennifer Fletcher director
Toria Banks libretto (after Antoine Houdar de la Motte)