THE Welsh National Opera gives a second airing to its 2009 production of Mozart’s upstairs/downstairs work to complete its spring season.
Set in 1920s Spain it looks sleek and elegant, especially in the design of Countess Almaviva’s minimalist cream sitting room.
But with the story based around the feudal right of the master to de-flower any bride in his household on her wedding night, albeit probably a mythical one, it doesn’t sit well in that era.
Something of a farce, there’s much hiding under sheets, sneaking into cupboards and to-ing and fro-ing through mirror panelled doors, all of which require slick timing.
And it gets it from an all-round accomplished cast all seeming to enjoy putting the amusement into this three-and-a-half hour long performance.
Jealousy, disguise and misunderstandings all play a part along the path to true love in this sequel to the Barber of Seville with some of the same characters in situations that spring from that previous plot.
David Soar (Figaro) and Rebecca Evans (Countess Almaviva) both reprise their roles with polish and assurance while Elizabeth Watts is a feisty Susanna the maid with a great rapport both with Figaro, her intended, and the Countess, her mistress.
Jurgita Adamonyte brings a great naughty charm to the role of Cherubino the page, Dario Salari makes a strong lustful Count and Sarah Pring is a lot of fun as Marcellina.
There’s plenty of recognisable music in Mozart’s familiar score with the WNO orchestra under conductor Anthony Negus rising splendidly as ever to the occasion. Continues on February 28, March 1 and 3.
