On a cold march night we flock towards The Theatre Royal for Opera North’s latest production of Mozart’s comedy The Marriage of Figaro.
This is my first experience of live opera and although excited about the evening ahead, I’m also apprehensive at seeing a comedy written so long ago- I mean, so many modern comedies loose their comedic zest after 10 years or less so how is something first performed in 1783 going to hold up?
As we are seated the spectacle of the theatre itself gives the experience a greater edge. The mixed crowds of young and old find their places the orchestra flurry scales that reverberate and resonate from the stalls high up to the gallery.
This version, sung in English takes some of the audience by surprise, as a few whispers pass around at the start of act 1. Presumably after the split second we think we are translating it ourselves in a misplaced genius moment.
I find this translation a relief as reading screens all night would detract from the casts delightfully animated performances, the clever set design and stylish costumes.
Without giving away too much I can say that the comedy works extremely well with genuine belly laughs sweeping the theatre at regular points. The cast harmonise well together and their solo efforts command real attention.
Figaro himself (played by Richard Burkhard) is very likeable and brings the character playfulness and charisma.
Alongside Figaro, the cast swing from laugh out loud moments to tender melancholy which let’s you really see many sides to all of the characters.
The ladies really do drive the piece, Suzanna the Countess and Marcellina (played by Silvia Moi, Ana Maria Labin and Gaynor Keeble respectfully) plan and plot throughout the piece keeping the men (and the audience) guessing as to what’s coming and next.
There are twists and turns and sordid exploits going on all around gives the feeling of a comedic farce by Oscar Wilde or an Ealing comedy.
I would recommend going to see The Marriage of Figaro for the uninitiated and the seasoned fan. I found the pace and flow of this production kept me entertained and engaged through this story of love, loss and shenanigans below stairs.
Review by Adam Willis
