Reno Troilus (Countertenor) will assume the roles of the superstar castrati of the 18th century, in his final recital before returning to the operatic circuit this year with Scottish Opera. Handel arias from works such as Julius Caesar, Rinaldo, Alcina, and many others are to be performed in a one night only concert.

Reno decided to move to Inverness with his wife in 2008, pending the arrival of their first child. He has since remained in the Highlands as a singing teacher, college lecturer, musical director, and Chairman of the Inverness Music Festival.

“Many arias in this recital were sung by adults who were castrated in their youth; the lack of testosterone produced a male soprano, allowing them to sing to incredible heights with unbelievable vocal power.” Reno explains. He was also keen to point out the differences between countertenors and castrati:

“Countertenors, for lack of a better word, are “intact”. Our voices are slightly lower than the castrati, but the overall advance of technical knowledge has brought about a sharp rise in the power and ability of this voice type.”

Reno has worked as a principal artist for opera houses across europe, and his UK appearances include English National Opera, and Scottish Opera .

The recital will include special guests, such as the promising young tenor from Nairn, Glen Cunningham. He was recently accepted to the Royal Scottish Conservatoire and will be studying there this year, with the hopes of following in Reno’s footsteps.

Also performing in the concert will be Inverness-based youth production company, Showstopperz, and the Troilus Ensemble chamber choir.

Despite the return to the circuit, Reno has insisted the Highlands is his family’s permanent residence.

“My wife and I felt it important that I took a step back from opera so that I wouldn’t miss precious time with the children. The timing now feels right to return to the stage, although our base is set to remain here”

Heroic Arias is to be performed at Eden Court’s One Touch Theatre on Thursday May 16th, 7:30pm. Tickets are £12/£10, and available at Eden Court box office, or online at www.eden-court.co.uk

Source: Inverness Festival Association