La Bohème
Image: Photo credit: Branco Gaica.
Opera Australia opens its summer season masterfully with its tried and true production of La Bohème.
Puccini’s nineteenth century Parisian work is cleverly adapted to twentieth century pre-war Berlin, but with a twist for 2015, male burlesque performers are added to the act 2 Spiegel Tent. Shane Lowrencev’s Schaunard is as camp as ever in this performance, even accompanied by two clowns, clad in leather during his grand entrance.
Vocally Diego Torre (as Rodolfo) and Maiji Kovalevska (as Mimi) dominate the performance, proving themselves an expert pairing within the lead roles.
Lorino Gore (as Musetta) and Andrew Jones (as Marcello) perform their comical roles admirably.
Sets capture the period perfectly, while a flawless orchestra led by Andrea Molino translate sthe emotional turmoil of characters, as the struggling artists fall in and out of love. (LD)
Until Jan 16, Joan Sutherland Theatre, Sydney Opera House, $69-299, opera.org.au
