Londoners gave Charles II a fond welcome following his return to the capital from overseas exile. The Restoration period, although marked by state repression and fears of foreign invasion, gave rise to spectacular theatrical entertainments and patriotic royal celebrations.

Henry Purcell played his part in supplying thrilling compositions for the Stuart court and London stage, not least in the form of the works brought to vivid life in this concert by The Sixteen and Harry Christophers.