Tosca, Puccini
Following the critical acclaim and box office success of The Wreckers in 2006,
this year Duchy Opera presented one of the world's most glorious and beloved operas, Tosca.
Suzanne Manuell as Tosca
Photo- David Hunter Picastro
Review by Eric Dare
West Briton 07.06.07
Duchy Opera's Tosca last week was magnificent. Over the company's 30 years, from those early operas with Ben Luxon to last year's centenary production of The Wreckers, we've had many memorable productions, but inevitably there have been imperfections. It used to be the quality of the chorus - no longer so! - or the singing strength of minor principals, however commendable. But this last production was well-nigh flawless.
The Wreckers saw the introduction of professional (male) performers, and so it was in Tosca. Guy Robinson, the fearful Sacristan, added humour in this dark melodrama with his 'tic'; Gavin Davies was the escaped prisoner Angelotti, later doubling up as Scarpia's lackey, Sciarrone, while as Scarpia's lieutenant, Spoletta, there was Ed Goater. All were convincing in their roles.
Above these were the two principal men, the artist, Cavaradossi and the manipulative police chief, Baron Scarpia. Jeff Stewart was the handsome painter with a splendid tenor voice while the baritone, Eddie Wade as Scarpia was one of the best I've seen. I liked his apparent restraint and understated power, felt rather than demonstrated.
Alone in Puccinni's opera, among all these men, there was just one female character, Tosca. Suzanne Manuell was magnificent. While her singing matched that of her co-stars, her passionate and energetic characterisation was breathtaking. Whether showing jealousy for a possible rival or her love for Cavaradossi, she was utterly compelling - when have we seen a more convincing love duet both physically and vocally than her final duet with Jeff Stewart? Even more intense was her humilitation in the 'rape' scene and her violent dispatch of Scarpia.
Credit for such physicality must also go to Paul Wignall. His direction in the scenes where there was violence was not fudged and throughout the opera was excellent.
Besides the music and acting, this year's Tosca was visually attractive. The costumes were well suited and Tosca's gowns gorgeous ......Annabella Waite's scenery was, as usual, very effective.
One might complain about the volume of the orchestra, especailly the brass, drowning the singers. ...however, the Cornish Sinfonia were splendid under the direction of Paul Drayton who held all his forces together both on stage and in the pit.....would that the public had filled all the seats!
Special Opera Breaks
Be comfortable.....stay at The Nare
 Considered by many to be Cornwall’s most comfortable hotel, The Nare is renowned for its stunning sea views and is the highest rated four star
hotel in the county.
The Nare Hotel is delighted to support Duchy Opera with their productions and as lead hotel sponsor always puts together special Opera Breaks, which include an invitation to the private Champagne Reception prior to the last night performance.
The Nare is offering two, thee or four day Opera Breaks.
For further information view The Nare website on www.narehotel.co.uk/duchyopera
Telephone Reservations 01872 50 11 11 or email reservations@narehotel.com |
