Doctor Dee is a new opera written by Damon Albarn and directed by Rufus Norris, which explores ritual and symbolism in this country, past and present, using Doctor John Dee – one of England’s greatest but largely forgotten men – as catalyst.

Doctor John Dee was one of the last great free thinkers.  He was the ultimate Renaissance man: astrologer, alchemist, mathematician and spy, who provided the inspiration for both Marlowe's Faust and Shakespeare's Prospero, however he has slipped from the pages of history.

The piece is co-commissioned by MIF, ENO and London 2012. It will be premiered as part of the Manchester International festival on 1 July 2011.

Doctor Dee has already been confirmed as part of the Cultural Olympiad and will play at the London Coliseum 25 June - 7 July 2012.