Stubbings Opera
Stubbings Opera 2010: Review
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TOSCA – by Puccini
Performed by Opera a la Carte (Directed by Nicholas Heath)
The year Stubbings Opera went undercover...
On the evenings of 30th and 31st July, 2010, sell out aufiences flocked to the lovely gardens of Stubbings House, for the annual Stubbings Opera, sponsored by Saffery Champness.
This year, there were two important differences. For the first time at Stubbings, the performance was to be under cover. At last, audiences could look forward to an outdoor event that the weather couldn’t spoil! The added bonus of a marquee was that a wooden floor could be fitted, to improve acoustics. The second important difference was the performers. This year, Tosca was to be presented by the highly acclaimed Opera a la Carte, directed by Nicholas Heath. The following is just a taste of their critical acclaim:
"Turning …a few props and the air itself into a magical arena", (Country Life);
"…it should be a must!" (British Theatre Guide);
"Dare we say, better than Glyndebourne.." (Irish Times).
So, with a promising evening ahead, guests enjoyed a picnic on the lawn before the performance. Some had brought their own food, others had ordered a luxury hamper for collection on the night. Champagne corks popped and bubbly flowed, along with the conversation. What’s more, the weather was warm.
At 7.30, the audience was shepherded in to the marquee, for the performance.
Tosca is a real favourite with opera-going audiences. However, on a small stage, with a small cast, in a marquee, it’s particularly challenging. We held our breath as we waited for the first notes.
We needn’t have worried. The storyline had been modernised to take place during the Second World War. The political backdrop of the last days of Mussolini’s 'rule' in Italy, adding a broody, dramatic setting for the turbulent storyline.
Within seconds, it was obvious that Puccini’s beautiful music was in the hands of experts. Cheryl Enever brought real passion to the title role, as her lovely voice effortlessly soared through the air. Paul Keohone, in the role of Scarpia (the corrupt chief of police), prowled the stage, cigarette in mouth, knife in hand, whilst the audience visibly winced under his steely gaze. You almost forgot that his voice was as magnificent as his acting (I still have no idea how someone can sing - superbly - whilst appearing to smoke. Very clever!) .
The standard of the cast and tiny orchestra of Opera a la Carte exceeded my expectations in leaps and bounds. The sheer quality of sound was an amazing achievement for so few people. It was a triumph!
But if there’s one performer I would single out for praise, it is Charne Rochford, singing the tenor role of Mario Cavaradossi (Tosca’s lover). His voice matched anything I’d heard at the Royal Opera House, and he could act, too! How can one person have so much talent?
Suffice it to say that if Opera a la Carte is coming back next year, there’ll be a stampede for tickets – and I’ll be first in the queue!
Phone our Box Office for more information - 01628 820140.
SPONSORED BY:-
Charity
Every year Stubbings Opera supports the charity Action Medical Research, which funds important research into childhood illnesses. A contribution from any proceeds raised will be donated to their very good cause.
For more information regarding Action Medical research please click on their logo below.
