Tag Archives: The Coliseum

Die Fledermaus, ENO

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Die Fledermaus is a saucy operetta from Johann Strauss. This classic comedy is centred around a fantasy world influenced heavily by Freud and dream analysis. Highly complex theories translate into a rather confused and complicated, but utterly hilarious, show.

The ENO welcome this new production from Olivier Award-winning director Christopher Alden. Much of the cast are commendable, with a few stand-out performances from Rhian Los as Adele and Richard Burkhard tremendous as the sly Dr Falke. However I found Julia Sporsen rather too much as the over-indulgent and melodramatic Rosalinde, whose rampant dreams in the prelude were unbelievable and laughable even! Jennifer Holloway too looks a bit silly playing the paranoid Russian Prince Orlofsky.

The gorgeous Art Deco inspired staging is a joy – I especially loved the giant clock pendulum that swings ominously from the ceiling. And with the elaborate costume designs from Costance Hoffman, it is quite a spectacle.

It was a shock to not see Edward Gardner at his post in the pit, instead Korean conductor Eun Sun Kim takes to the stand making her ENO debut. I so wanted her to be brilliant but she seemed to be drowning a bit in the orchestra and wasn’t quite able to keep the score afloat. Strauss’ music should be light and dazzling, and some of this joyful quality was lost.

Strauss’ Viennese operetta is full of memorable melodies and lyrical turns, and though aspects of this production fall a little flat, I can’t help admiring the cast and crew for their brave rendition and updated version of this clever classic.

Running until 6 November, book tickets here.

Barber of Seville, ENO

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Even after reading the synopsis twice the ridiculous narrative of Rossini’s famous Barber of Seville makes little sense. But let’s be honest people flock to see this opera for the magnificent music not for the story.

Having said that, the ENO’s revival is terribly funny and uses the nuances of the complicated tale to include hilariously entertaining episodes. Although the  production is not in modern dress, the modernised English lyrics are extremely clever and fit in perfectly with the comical operetta style.

Celebrating its 25th anniversary year, Jonathan Miller’s classic staging of Rossini’s masterpiece is back at the Coliseum, in my opinion better than ever. The petite cast work brilliantly together to present a seamless performance of music and drama, and revival director Peter Relton has managed to give a new lease of life to Miller’s original version.

The show starts slowly but soon gathers momentum. I was captivated throughout, my attention completely controlled by the characters on stage. Benedict Nelson is a witty and charismatic Figaro, and his voice is elegant and charming. My guest adored David Soar’s depiction of Don Basilio and we both loved Andrew Shore’s magnificently energetic and clever performance as Doctor Bartolo. However it is the leading lady who steals the show. Lucy Crowe sparkles as the coloratura diva, Rosina. Her voice soars and pierces the top stratospheric notes with staggering ease and impressive dexterity. Along with her natural acting ability and good looks, she is an absolute pleasure to watch.

Surprisingly for the first time I found the ENO orchestra a little sluggish under the command of Jaime Martin, a conductor I didn’t recognise. They did pick up the passion once the familiar arias swung into action. Visually the production is a joy, though we would have appreciated perhaps one more scene change. Costumes may be cumbersome for the cast but are worth the effort as they look gorgeous under the lights.

I am always interested in the ENO’s new compositions, but there is only so much tragedy us opera reviewers can cope with… in my opinion it is much more fun skipping home still singing the marvellous tunes of Rossini’s great comic masterpiece.

Continues until Sunday 17 March, book here.

The Nutcracker 2012, The Coliseum

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As ever the English National Ballet thrill and excite with their annual production of the Nutcracker. It is impossible not to enjoy the lyrical music, gorgeous costumes, romantic set and beautiful dancing in Wayne Eagling’s production of Tchaikovsky’s festive classic.

This year Daria Klimentova takes on the role of Clara, with Fabian Reimair as Drosselmeyer, James Streeter as Mouse King and Vadim Muntagirov as Nephew. It is an all star cast of brilliantly charming dancers. There is a youthful energy and excitement as they whirl energetically, taking on the lifts with precision and elegance. Credit is also due to the exceptional kids who play such a crucial role in this popular ballet. Annabella Sanders as young Clara and James Lovell as young Freddie are particularly impressive, commanding the stage as confident actors and dancers.

The orchestra follow the score with a fresh outlook, you’d never know they had been playing this ballet over and over. The music sizzles and sparkles, thanks also to conductor Gavin Sutherland who conducts beautifully. On stage there is always something to look at with a stunning set designed by Peter Farmer and glowing lighting by David Richardson. All in all this production of the Nutcracker reminds me every year of the joy of Christmas and leaves worries of presents and stress far behind.

There is constant competition between the Royal Ballet and English National Ballet, these grand Covent Garden theatres always rivalling for the top spot. With artistic integrity and creative genius the Coliseum masterpiece is the winner for me year after year.

Continues until Friday 30 December, book here.