On 5 July, Tenor Christopher Sokolowski will make his role debut as Captain Edward Fairfax Vere in Britten’s The Story of Billy Budd at Festival d’Aix-en-Provence. This new production, directed by Ted Huffman and conducted by Finnegan Downie Dear, offers a bold reinterpretation of Britten’s iconic opera, adapted in collaboration with the Britten Estate. 

Sokolowski’s portrayal of Vere, a conflicted naval officer caught between duty and conscience, marks a significant milestone in his career. Known for his expressive vocalism and dramatic depth, he brings a fresh intensity to this psychologically complex role. His recent reviews noted him as being vocally commanding and emotionally nuanced, with critics praising his ability to convey both spiritual conviction and inner turmoil through a richly coloured tenor and compelling stage presence.

This debut continues Sokolowski’s trajectory as one of the most compelling tenors of his generation, and we look forward to sharing more from this exciting production.