Songs & catches – Purcell at the pub

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Embark on a lively musical journey through 17th-century England with this sparkling selection of drinking songs showcasing all the wit, imagination, and theatrical flair of Henry Purcell.

A central figure of the musical golden age that flourished under Charles II and the Restoration, Purcell created music of extraordinary richness and contrast. Intimate solo songs such as If Music Be the Food of Love reveal remarkable emotional depth, while excerpts from his stage works — including the overture to Welcome to All the Pleasures — burst with festive humour and vitality. Moving between brilliance, tenderness and melancholy, this staged concert offers an immersion into Purcell’s vibrant orchestral world.

Conceived by Paul Agnew and choreographed by Anahi Passi — following her collaboration with Mourad Merzouki on The Fairy Queen at the 2023 edition of Dans les Jardins de William Christie — the production also shines a spotlight on a new generation of baroque voices through three former laureates of the Jardin des Voix Academy. A spirited finale to the Festival’s 15th edition before the production tours during the 2026–2027 season. 

Following the performances at the Water Mirror, audience members are invited to wander freely through the illuminated Jardins de William Christie by candlelight. 
Access reserved exclusively for ticket holders attending the Water Mirror evening performances.