Barry Banks and Anna Christy make welcome returns to English National Opera, in their role debuts as the evil Duke of Mantua and his innocent victim Gilda in Christopher Alden’s sumptuous new production of Verdi’s dark opera Rigoletto.

They are joined by Justina Gringyte in her company debut as Maddalena and Matthew Treviño – also appearing in the company’s current production of Peter Grimes — as Sparafucile. Graeme Jenkins conducts the performances which open on 13 February and run until 14 March.