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| August 20th, 2003 |
Source: Copyright (c) 2003, Colorado Drama Online All
rights reserved.
Bob Bows |
L'Italiana in Algeri
In Italy, in the early 19th century, opera existed for the express purpose
of showing off the voice, and the undisputed master of this genre at the
time was Gioacchino Rossini. Among his many strengths, Rossini had a deft
comedic touch, as evidenced by his classic Il Barbiere di Siviglia (The
Barber of Seville) and Central City Opera's current production of L'Italiana
in Algeri (The Italian Girl in Algiers).
Full of satisfying solos, duets, and ensemble work, Algeri is the story of
Isabella, an adventurous girl who is kidnapped by Algerian pirates and taken
to the lusty Bey (Sultan) of Algiers. In his court she discovers her missing
ex-boyfriend, Lindoro, has also been enslaved, and that the Bey wants to
dump his wife, Elvira, on Lindoro so he can marry Isabella. The plot unfolds
with Isabella, her traveling companion and hapless admirer Taddeo, and
Lindoro conspiring to escape.
Viktoria Vizin as Isabella
and Richard Bernstein as Mustafá
Photo: Mark N. Kiryluk
In her American debut, the tall, attractive mezzo-soprano Viktoria Vizin is
scintillating as Isabella, effortlessly tossing off Rossini's playful
coloraturas, yet powerful enough to stand out in all the ensembles. Vizin's
confident dramatic style is as pleasing as her voice. Together with
Metropolitan Opera veteran bass-baritone Richard Bernstein as Mustafá, the
Bey of Algiers, they mine every hilarious opportunity.
Richard Bernstein as Mustafa
and Jonathan Hays as Taddeo
Photo: Mark N. Kiryluk
Tenor Brian Downen, as Lindoro, delights us with his effortless bel
canto style and understated humorous approach. Baritone Jonathan Hays'
Taddeo is a bemused yet resigned accomplice to Isabella's plotting. The
voluptuous Elvira, played by Lorraine Ernest exhibits a fine soprano.
The costumes from the Washington Opera, are a stylish mix of early 20th
century European and timeless Arabian wraps. Conductor Hal France sets a
pleasant pace with a strong, disciplined orchestra, nurturing Rossini's
musical humor, and David Gately's direction takes full comedic advantage
of every situation while effectively using the entire stage. Only the
cartoonish flavor of the set seems out of synch, easy though it is to
ignore in the presence of such consistently fine work.
Central City Opera's L'Italiana in Algeri runs through 10th in repertory
with the double bill of I Pagliacci and Goyescas and the world premiere
of Gabriel's Daughter. 303-292-6700.
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