Sat. November 26, 2016
By Michael J. Roberts
Massenet's Don Quichotte has never quite established itself in the opera repertoire, not because of any deficit in the music, but because it's not immediately evident exactly what it is dramatically; is it a comedy or tragedy or some more subtle blend of the two? The last option seems to reflect the usual approach to it, which makes it a hard sell for audiences. I have always enjoyed seeing the musical theater version – especially the performances by Chicagoan James Harms – and then it all creeps up on me in that final scene and I am reminded of the don's Haunting death... and it IS a tragedy! Take the score for example; a fine work of French composition but nothing to do with Spain. The music is exquisite and very delicate and never really takes off until Act IV of 5 acts when the mezzo lets loose and sings and acts up a storm!
Don Quichotte was inspired by the greatest of all Spanish novels and is the story of an eccentric idealist and self-proclaimed knight errant who tilts at windmills and fights for the honor of his lady Dulcinée. The opera combines Massenet's fabulously atmospheric music with his own matchless theatrical flair to conjure energy and spirit, beauty, and hope.
In his Lyric debut, set designer Ralph Funicello creates the windmills via video projections overlaying the stage's windmills. There is an added touch at the end of the turning windmill wheels seeming to float weightlessly into space. All five sets recalled Italian opera. The scenes of the villages were especially well designed and colored and gave the audience a true feeling of being on a Mediterranean coastal village. Costume designer Missy West also is making her Lyric debut in this production. These are lush and period-appropriate garb that more than work.
Sir Andrew Davis conducts in a production that is as gorgeous to see as it is to hear. His tempos are lively and bright, well balanced, very clean, and clearly detailed. Evergreen Michael Black was Chorus Master and again delivered a first class product to Lyric Opera's audiences.
The sound of Andrew Davis's orchestra is well balanced, very clean, and clearly detailed.
Overall, this exemplary performance makes the most compelling case for Don Quichotte as an opera that deserves a place in the more standard repertoire.
Reviewed by: Robert Sphatt
When:
Now through December 7
Monday, Nov. 28 at 7.30pm/ Thursday, Dec 1 at 7.30pm/Sun, Dec 4 at 2pm/and closing on Wed, Dec 7 at 7pm.
Where:
Lyric Opera at the Civic Opera House
Address: 20 N Wacker Dr Ste 860, Chicago, IL 60606
Phone: (312) 827-5600
Tickets:
$17-$229
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