Once again the sumptuous Baron’s Hall provided the backdrop for a splendid operatic evening that has now become a must for Arundel Festival goers.

Candlelight Opera returned with a chamber production telling the tale of the infamous libertine who, according to his manservant’s list, has made 2,065 conquests.

Eschewing the use of scenery, the production roamed around the hall, taking the action among the audience and even having the Don woo and serenade a lady spectator. Good use was made of the gallery that overlooks the hall, especially for the appearance of the avenging ghost – a magisterial delivery from Francesc Zaragoza.

It was pleasing to see three of the artists from last year’s production again – Jonathan Prentice brought comic touches to the role of the roué whose descent to Hell was powerfully realised, while Jayne Strand impressed as the rejected but devoted Donna Elvira. But it was the sensual performance of Tara Melia Hunt, seductively smoothing her husband’s jealousy, that raised the hairs on the back of my neck.

Andrew Foan started well as the servant, Leporello, but seemed to run out of steam in the second act, while Jeremy Valentine, although overshadowed when singing with others – especially Lyndsey Docherty’s excellent Donna Anna – fared much better in his solos.

To these reservations I would add that the action among the audience would have benefited from spot lighting and, once again, I have to lament the lack of height to the acting rostrum, causing viewing problems for many of us.