Lovely Figaro

Photo © Dan Rest 2010

We just got back from the opening performance of the Lyric's revival of the Hall production of Le nozze di Figaro.  What to say?  The old production stands up remarkably well after 37 years - and the Lyric cast was what will in the future be regarded as a vintage one.  Susanna is always the lynch pin of a Figaro cast - she is rarely off the stage and is one of opera's most lovable creations.  And Danielle de Niese was magic.  With the Yankee Diva herself also in the cast as Cherubino, and with two gloriously voiced baritones, Mariusz Kwiecien and Kyle Ketelson, as the Count and Figaro, we were treated to some pretty lovely stuff.

We were happy to be there (an understatement) and our six year old was riveted for the full three and three quarter hours.  Good upbringing! But a pity about the fireworks - there weren't any.  Have the fire department really brought us to this?

Do not miss Music of the Baroque at the Harris tomorrow evening.  "Handel and the Royals" is the name of the program.  Jane Glover and her team will surely give us a treat.

Comments

[Jordan Friedman]

I heard it on the radio, and loved it as well. Danielle de Niese is perfect for Susanna. I'm going to a later performance, and I'm interested to hear any differences there might be because of a different conductor on that night. Is it common to have vastly different musical interpretations when there is more than one conductor in the same run of an opera, or are they advised to keep it relatively consistent?

Also, perhaps it was just poor placement of microphones, but on the radio broadcast the recitative continuo was nearly inaudible. I hope it was the microphones--otherwise this will be a very upsetting performance indeed. Someone should tell that harpsichordist to pull another stop if possible.

[BD]

The Continuo was just fine in the house - no problem from where I was near the front aisle 2 - opposite side of the house from the Harpsichord........

[Jordan Friedman]

Thanks! Great to know!