Carmen -Photo by Jeff Busby

A Masked Ball
Carmen
Arabella
My Fair Lady

This years Opera calendar boasts some beautiful works, both new productions and revivals.

To begin, audiences are treated to the beautiful “A Masked Ball” by Verdi, in which “deception and disguise rule at the Swedish court of King Gustav III. While the benevolent ruler plans a grand masquerade for the pleasure of his subjects, a band of conspirators are plotting his end. The traitors, however, will only succeed if they can enlist an ally close to the king. Enter fate.

In the end the only true conspirator in Verdi's vividly crafted tale is love. For, in spite of the external machinations of a kingdom in turmoil, the real drama plays out internally, through Verdi's evocative orchestral writing, his lush melodies and one of opera's greatest love duets ever.”

The orchestration and chorus work here are absolutely stunning. The true highlight of the piece is the choral finale. Visually, this production was not necessarily the most spectacular, however the settings served their individual purpose. The stellar cast includes opera’s favourite mezzo, Milijana Nikolic, alongside Nicole Youl and Michael Lewis.

A Masked Ball - Photo Jeff Bubsy

Following this is a brand new production of Carmen. It is exciting to see a fresh approach to a classic piece. This new, minimalist production has been filmed for ABC TV and it’s not hard to see why. With a cast of both old and new faces, Carmen has been transformed. The classic tunes are all there, with a highlight being Carmen’s “Habanera.” Pamela Helen-Stevenson smoulders in the title role with a fine acting ability and a voice to match.

Thirdly in the season is a new production of Richard Strauss’ “Arabella” which features a star studded line up of talent including Emma Matthews, Peter Coleman-Wright and the gorgeous Cheryl Barker. The story is a simple one, Arabella is on her search for Mr Right. Along the way we are treated to a psychological drama of inner conflict. The entire production is stunning and should be highly lauded. The cast handle the tricky melodies with ease and grace.

Finishing this years season is a brand new production of My Fair Lady. Yes it’s a musical theatre piece, however, over the past few years, Opera Australia have endeavoured to widen their repertoire to include a popular musical piece each season. The cast features Reg Livermore as Henry Higgins, alongside Taryn Fiebig as Eliza. To round out this fine production is one of the finest line ups on one stage. As the eternal matriarch, Mrs Higgins, is the show-stealing Nancye Hayes. Rhys McConnochie is Colonel Pickering. Judi Connelli is unfortunately under used as the housekeeper, Mrs Pearce, as it would have been nice to hear her use that incredible voice as well as her acting talent. Robert Grubb plays Alfie Dolittle with flair somewhat reminiscent of Stanley Holloway and relative newcomer, Matthew Robinson is dashing and handsome as Freddy Einsford-Hill.

This being said, however, the true star of the piece is the Ascot scene, with the fashion parade of stunning outfits, which were all designed and created especially for this production. If these outfits don’t win an award, it will be a great shame.

The production moves at a cracking pace, with a revolving stage being used to great effect, which keeps the action flowing, whilst never missing a moment.

Although the tickets are not the cheapest in town, this is fine culture at its peak and is worth every cent.

Tags: Opera Australia