Outstanding singing distinguishes PB Opera's 'Pagliacci'

Palm Beach Opera’s inaugural open-air festival at the South Florida Fairgrounds came to its conclusion Saturday with a visceral performance of Ruggero Leoncavallo's ever-popular "Pagliacci."

Premiered in 1892, the short opera, usually coupled with Mascagni’s "Cavalleria Rusticana," benefited by being performed alone, thanks especially to the masterful stage direction by James Robinson.

Indeed, despite the bare-bones sets and the required social distancing among singers, their convincing acting kept the audience on their seats' edges throughout the evening.

Besides good acting, lyricism was at the forefront of Saturday’s performance, which featured exquisite singing by the distinguished cast.

Celebrated soprano Ana María Martínez portrayed a strong-willed Nedda; her voice convincingly modulating from shimmering pianissimi to an edgier tone as the plot developed.

As Canio, Robert Watson displayed outstanding vocalism and a well-balanced characterization of the betrayed husband. His "Vesti la giubba" was highly emotional, but not overly dramatic.

The somewhat ungrateful role of Silvio was performed by Joshua Hopkins with passion and solid technique, while tenor Matthew DiBattista (who had impressed in the previous night as an outstanding Monostastos in Mozart's "Magic Flute") sang Beppe with an authentic Calabrian flair.

As Tonio (that unsympathetic Iago from the proletariat) Palm Beach Opera regular Michael Chioldi dominated the stage. His flawless diction, commanding acting skills and multi-colored instrument were a real showstopper. His artistry, combined with conductor Patrick Summers’ ability to draw an unprecedentedly high level of playing by the orchestra, compensated for the rather unsophisticated storyline.

One can only hope that Palm Beach Opera will be able to count on some of these outstanding singers next year as it will celebrate its 60th season. For now, General Director David Walker deserves to rest a little on his laurels, although he should get quickly get back to work. Palm Beach Opera has, no doubt, greatly benefited from his leadership.