The reviewers at The Arts Desk take a look at the productions featuring Wagner, Handel and Janaček this week - three of the opera greats that are among the many opera productions on offer across the country.
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.
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.
The new production of Handel's grand opera 'Xerxes' by English Touring Opera took place at the Britten Theatre at the Royal College of Music. 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 new setting saw Handel's Persian princes become Battle of Britain fighter pilots, and a woman played the role of King Xerxes himself. English Touring Opera is known for its superb ensemble work and there were no dud performances here. The outstanding performance of the night though was provided by Julia Riley who seemed perfectly at ease singing this masculine part.
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.
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.
The new production of Handel's grand opera 'Xerxes' by English Touring Opera took place at the Britten Theatre at the Royal College of Music. 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 new setting saw Handel's Persian princes become Battle of Britain fighter pilots, and a woman played the role of King Xerxes himself. English Touring Opera is known for its superb ensemble work and there were no dud performances here. The outstanding performance of the night though was provided by Julia Riley who seemed perfectly at ease singing this masculine part.
About the Author:
Steve Alexander is an arts writer who a good knowledge of opera in London. For the latest grand opera reviews, visit theartsdesk.com.