Conductor J. Ernest Green caught the poetic side of the score as effectively as the bubbly side, and, with few exceptions, held things together neatly. And this sounded to me like the best Young Vic orchestra yet.
James Harp directed with a mostly light touch and an appreciation for momentum (the speed was helped by assorted cuts). He might have ensured a more cohesive use of accents, though; the mix of American, British and Spanish wasn't exactly harmonious. But most of the contemporary references inserted into the dialogue, including "Natty-Bo" and a fist-bump, proved harmless and sometimes funny.
The set, from Delaware Opera, was more attractive at suggesting Venice in the first act than Barataria in the second, but the costumes added elegance throughout.
Performances of "The Gondoliers" continue Thursday through Sunday at the Bryn Mawr School in Roland Park. For more information, call 410-323-3077 or go to yvtc.org.
Handel at Wolf Trap
Wolf Trap Opera has established a remarkable track record for presenting unusually talented young artists in imaginative stagings of a wide variety of repertoire. The latest venture, Handel's Alcina, adds considerably to that record.
The production, with an intriguingly atmospheric set by Erhard Rom and vivid, era-bending costumes by Mattie Ullrich, conjures up a distinctive vision of the island where the sorceress Alcina holds her discarded lovers in a captive trance, and where she will meet her unexpected downfall.
Like any Handel opera, this one is constructed primarily out of solo arias, but director Eric Einhorn's eye for detail and character insight ensures that each one becomes an integral emotional part of the narrative. The result is a seamless, gripping flow.
The well-matched cast includes Rebekah Camm in a commanding performance of the title role. The soprano's tone can be a little edgy, but the technique is sure, the phrasing deeply communicative. She's a riveting actress, too. So is Ava Pine, as Alcina's ditsy, flirtatious sister, Morgana; her bright, agile voice, admirable breath control and wonderful expression complete the striking presence.
Elizabeth DeShong brings a ripe mezzo and poetic phrase-molding to the role of Ruggiero. Steven Sanders, as Oronte, is another potent and stylish vocal force. Memorable characterizations and a good deal of musical finesse are offered by Leena Chopra (Overto) and Maria Markina (Bradamante). The chorus is superb. Conductor Eric Melear shapes the score with a winning combination of propulsion and lyricism, drawing eloquent playing from the orchestra.
"Alcina" will be performed at 8 tonight at the Barns at Wolf Trap in Vienna, Va. Call 877-965-3872 or go to wolftrap.org.
tim.smith@baltsun.com
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