The biblical tale of King Nabucco and his persecution of the Hebrews makes for a stunning show by Opera 74.

Nabucco, in his arrogance, declares himself a God. He is struck down by an angry Almighty but this only paves the way for his scheming daughter, Abigaille, to steal the crown. Meanwhile, Nabucco's other daughter, Fenena, falls in love with the Hebrew Prince Ismaele and converts to Judaism. However, with Abigaille determined to stamp out the Hebrew race, their love seems doomed.

Jane Evans is excellent as the evil Abigaille, prowling the stage with menace and demonstrating an impressive vocal ability, particularly in Act Two where she finds that her lineage is not quite as royal as she thought. George Hulbert is by turns ferocious and pathetic as Nabucco himself, whose redemption makes a stark contrast to Abigaille's wickedness. In supporting roles, Jane Hyde is strong as Fenena and Chris Dodd plays Ismaele as stoic and determined.

The orchestra and chorus combine to produce an impressive effect particularly during the famous Fly, Thought, on Golden Wings. Kat Dibbits (The Bolton News, Thursday, September 25, 2008)