Many opera productions are on offer across the country this week including three of the opera greats. The productions featuring featuring Wagner, Handel and Janaček are looked at by the reviewers on The Arts Desk.
The dawn of a new golden age of Welsh National Opera was witnessed during Katie Mitchell's impressive production of Janacek's tragic opera 'Katya Kabanova'. In the lead role, Amanda Roocroft emanated both radiant intensity and an elegant dignity, and although it was far from perfect, it gets to the heart of Katya's emotional turmoil.
The Royal Opera House was home to only the second production there in 20 years of Wagner's 'Die Fliegende Hollnder' ('The Flying Dutchman'). It was a reliable and entertaining opera, although the production doesn't quite soar as it should. The story has been given a nondescript modern setting and gets off to a bad start with an unnecessary bit of padding, which added little to the drama.
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.
The dawn of a new golden age of Welsh National Opera was witnessed during Katie Mitchell's impressive production of Janacek's tragic opera 'Katya Kabanova'. In the lead role, Amanda Roocroft emanated both radiant intensity and an elegant dignity, and although it was far from perfect, it gets to the heart of Katya's emotional turmoil.
The Royal Opera House was home to only the second production there in 20 years of Wagner's 'Die Fliegende Hollnder' ('The Flying Dutchman'). It was a reliable and entertaining opera, although the production doesn't quite soar as it should. The story has been given a nondescript modern setting and gets off to a bad start with an unnecessary bit of padding, which added little to the drama.
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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