Ellida, daughter of a lighthouse-keeper, lives a narrow life with a husband several years her senior. She is full of longing for the sea and for freedom, and the arrival of a mysterious stranger creates a storm that threatens to submerge the whole family. He offers an escape from the stifling world she inhabits, and Ellida must decide whether to do her duty or answer the call of the sea…

Known equally for his popular music collaborations and his scores for cinema and stage, including Baz Luhrmann’s Romeo + Juliet and Moulin Rouge!, Armstrong is a pioneering musician whose distinctive classical works have been praised for their delicacy and beauty.

The Lady from the Sea also makes use of video design, playing to Armstrong’s extensive cinematic experience.

A Scottish Opera and Edinburgh International Festival co-production.