In Hastings, in the early 1950s, the local council have decided to promote the town as a seaside resort, producing colourful leaflets and posters, all aimed at convincing potential holidaymakers that the town offers a glamorous alternative to what were still straitened post-war circumstances.
The star of the advertising campaign is the wealthy and attractive Adina, who loves being the centre of attention. She is pursued by two would-be suitors: the simple Nemorino and the cocky sergeant Belcore. When the spiv “doctor” Dulcamara visits the town with his miracle cures, Nemorino asks if he has an “Elixir of Love”. Ever the salesman, Dulcamara repurposes a bottle of cheap wine to the credulous Nemorino. But then, magically, the “Elixir of Love” seems to have its desired effect…
Director: Eleanor Strutt
Conductor: Marcio da Silva
And with the Sussex Concert Orchestra
