English National Opera’s Doldrums

“Those looking for proof of Robert Conquest’s maxim that any major institution always seems to be run by secret agents employed by its enemies need only examine ENO’s recent history. What next for the house? Well, come back after your interval G and T for more in this unmistakable vein of grand guignol. All this is very well and good, but it’s obviously impacting on the artistic achievements of the house. For a long time now, it’s been incredibly patchy.”