Robert Saxton: Caritas

Caritas - first performed in 1991 - occupies an important position in Robert Saxton's output and in British opera during the closing decades of the 20th century. Thomas provides a detailed contextual setting in which to evaluate Caritas, as well as presenting an analytical commentary on the structure, musical language, instrumentation, staging and production of the opera. Thomas concludes with a reflection on the reception of Caritas as well as a look forward to Saxton's later and future works. A CD of the first performance is included.