Tosca, the classic Opera originally by Puccini, is adapted successfully by John Bell and set in the Nazi allied Rome of 1943 to 1944. This classic libretto by Luigi Illica and Giuseppe Giacosa is dominated by torture and murder. The accessible production contains themes of feminism and rape, all under the confronting Swastika flags and executed flawlessly by the fascist pig-villain Scarpia played by John Wegner.
The production is a feast for the senses, with stunning sets and costumes brimming with detail and colour. This further complements two of the most spectacular voices to grace the stage at the Sydney Opera House. David Parkin as Cesare Angelotti vocally dominates the stage throughout the first act, with a surprisingly powerful voice for his small frame. Alexia Voulgaridou’s Floria Tosca provides a captivating, believable performance throughout while particularly moving the audience with the aria Vissi d’arte during the second act.
Fans of Tosca and Puccini’s work will find plenty of new surprises here, while those who are new will find this production highly accessible. (LD)
Until Aug 31, Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney, $44-306, (02) 9250 7777, sydneyoperahouse.com
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