GenQ - For the not so straight individual

For the first time, GenerationQ.net goes to the opera!
I have seen the first 2 shows in the OA Melbourne season... Barber of Seville and Il Trovatore. Both within 7 days of each other and both visually and aurally breathtaking.
Barber, known by many of us for its famous "Lago Del Factotum" aria (Figaro Figaro Figaro! - think Robin Williams in Mrs Doubtfire) can quite easily be one of the most entertaining operas. I was amazed to see such a fresh young cast, particularly the fresh faced Luke Gabbedy who happened to be taking over the title role, as Jose Carbo was indisposed with Laryngitis. The other standout was Emma Matthews who tackles the coloratura and hits every note on the head. I doubt she is more than 25 years old!  This production proves that opera is far from boring. I didn't believe it could actually make me laugh!

Il Trovatore is the 2nd show in this season. Set during the Spanish Civil War, this production is extremely well executed (pardon the pun). The cast are a bit older here, and it does show in their experience in their interpretation. This is a far more serious melodrama.

I haven't gone into detail with plot synopses as they are both quite complicated. Hence why the average running time is just under 3 hours. I would describe these experiences as breathtaking and also a privelege.

The third show in OA's Autumn Season is "Rusalka." This is a beautiful piece that comes from the Czech Republic, telling the story of a beautiful water sprite, Rusalka, who has fallen in love with a human on the land so she decides to become human and sacrifice her voice... Yes, it's the Little Mermaid story, however there's no Disneyfied ending here. It's a very sad story.
The performances were extremely strong accross the board here, particularly Sally Matthews in the title role who is just as strong in her acting as her singing, as she is mute for most of the 2nd Act.
The design of the show was breathtaking. The simple set, resembling an ice cave, was beautiful and very effective, and the contrasts in colours of costumes to the stark white background was stunning.
The music is absolutley gorgeous. I found myself getting swept away with the emotion of it all. At 3 and a half hours, this was a little lengthy, however 2 intervals made it alot easier to get through!
Overall, a very moving production.

To conclude, I will reiterate that opera is far from boring. If you can afford the ticket price (sometimes in excess of $125) I would recommend you take the plunge. I know I'm hooked now!

For more info:
Opera Australia
Ticketmaster