The works of three of the opera greats are among the many opera productions on offer across the country. The reviewers at The Arts Desk take a look for themselves at the productions featuring Wagner, Handel and Janaček.
Katie Mitchell's impressive production of Janacek's tragic opera 'Katya Kabanova', witnessed the dawn of a new golden age of Welsh National Opera. It wasn't perfect but it gets to the heart of Katya's emotional turmoil and Amanda Roocroft emanated both radiant intensity and an elegant dignity in the lead role.
Wagner's 'Die Fliegende Hollnder' ('The Flying Dutchman') took place at the Royal Opera House for only the second production of it there in 20 years. Although the production doesn't quite soar as it should, it was a reliable and entertaining opera. Adding little to the drama, was the nondescript modern setting that the story was given, which gets if off to a bad start with an unnecessary bit of padding.
The orchestra seemed to be experiencing teething problems with conductor Jeffrey Tate's directionless tempi leading the music to jar with the singers, making the whole thing feel rather messy. Though not as passionate as some other past productions, this one certainly has its merits as it's daring in its simplicity and profound in its own quiet yet effective way.
English Touring Opera's new production of Handel's grand opera 'Xerxes', was seen at the Britten Theatre at the Royal College of Music. The new setting saw Handel's Persian princes become Battle of Britain fighter pilots, and King Xerxes himself played by a woman. Julia Riley seemed perfectly at ease singing this masculine part and provided the outstanding performance of the night. English Touring Opera is known for its superb ensemble work and there were no dud performances here. One of the company's many successful takes on Handel, it was wonderful to see them attempt such a fun, unconventional approach to the adopted English composer.
Katie Mitchell's impressive production of Janacek's tragic opera 'Katya Kabanova', witnessed the dawn of a new golden age of Welsh National Opera. It wasn't perfect but it gets to the heart of Katya's emotional turmoil and Amanda Roocroft emanated both radiant intensity and an elegant dignity in the lead role.
Wagner's 'Die Fliegende Hollnder' ('The Flying Dutchman') took place at the Royal Opera House for only the second production of it there in 20 years. Although the production doesn't quite soar as it should, it was a reliable and entertaining opera. Adding little to the drama, was the nondescript modern setting that the story was given, which gets if off to a bad start with an unnecessary bit of padding.
The orchestra seemed to be experiencing teething problems with conductor Jeffrey Tate's directionless tempi leading the music to jar with the singers, making the whole thing feel rather messy. Though not as passionate as some other past productions, this one certainly has its merits as it's daring in its simplicity and profound in its own quiet yet effective way.
English Touring Opera's new production of Handel's grand opera 'Xerxes', was seen at the Britten Theatre at the Royal College of Music. The new setting saw Handel's Persian princes become Battle of Britain fighter pilots, and King Xerxes himself played by a woman. Julia Riley seemed perfectly at ease singing this masculine part and provided the outstanding performance of the night. English Touring Opera is known for its superb ensemble work and there were no dud performances here. One of the company's many successful takes on Handel, it was wonderful to see them attempt such a fun, unconventional approach to the adopted English composer.
About the Author:
Steve Alexander is a writer in London with a passion for grand opera in the capital. For the latest opera reviews and much more information, visit theartsdesk.com.
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