A ruler beheaded. A society ripped apart by plague. A city in ruin! Award winning early music ensemble Affetto joins with the enchanting Julian Wilson (actor and narrator) to take you back in time to the turbulent events of mid seventeenth century London. Reflect on the beheading of Charles I, the great Fire, the Plague and less dramatic domestic events through the insightful diary of Samuel Pepys and the glorious music of the time, by Henry Purcell, John Blow, Henry Lawes and others.

Praised as 'inspired programmers' by Metro and winners of the Best Musical Production at the 2011 Auckland Fringe Festival, Affetto brings the music of the 17th century to life in this brand new show, on authentic instruments and with passionate musicality.

"Affetto doesn’t just give us an academic glimpse into a bygone era. Affetto transports us there, to celebrate the lives, loves, joys and torments of those who populated that place in time – men and women just like us. They step out of history into our hearts and minds. Here is early music-making at its very best - impeccable musicianship, inspired interpretation and innovative programming" - Palmerston North Tribune.

Affetto is fast making a name for breathing new life into the glorious and beautiful music from the 17th century, and for their joyful and sincere performances.

5 performances: 2 in Hamilton in the Tudor Gardens of Hamilton Gardens; 2 in Ponsonby; 1 in Oratia.

Affetto:
Jayne Tankersley - soprano
Peter Reid - cornetto and natural trumpet
Polly Sussex - bass and treble viol
Rachael Griffiths-Hughes - harpsichord (and we hope the Avery organ at Ponsonby)