CAMBA, Andrea Melisa R.OPERA 2

WICHITA GRAND OPERA’S

Il barbiere di SivigliaPLOT SUMMARYACT 1

In Seville lives Doctor Bartolo who keeps Rosina, his ward, confined inside his house. One night, Count Almaviva comes in disguise to serenade Rosina but was not that successful in proclaiming his love. He then met Figaro the barber who is familiar with all the town’s secrets and scandals and explains to him that the doctor is set to marry the young lady. The witty barber formulated a plan for the count to achieve his heart’s desires—in exchange for a fairly good amount of course.

Rosina on the other hand is still hung-over the beautiful voice that serenaded her. The count in disguise made her believe that he is a poor student named Lindoro. Meanwhile, Don Basilio, Rosina’s music teacher, warns Bartolo that Almaviva is in town to pursue the lovely Rosina. He decides to marry Rosina immediately. Figaro overhears the plot. He informs Rosina about it and promises to deliver her letter to Lindoro. Bartolo, of course is suspicious of his ward but she outwits him. Bartolo establishes his superiority over Rosina and warns her not to get involved with the count.

Almaviva arrives as a drunken soldier and secretly relays his own note for Rosina. A commotion obviously develops inside Bartolo’s house. Suddenly, the civil guards bursts in to arrest Almaviva but when he reveals to the captain his true identity, he is released instantly. Everyone is amazed by the turn of events except for Figaro.

ACT 2

Bartolo questions the real identity of the “soldier” and suspects that it is really Almaviva in disguise. The count returns but this time as Don Alonso—a music teacher who will substitute for the “sick” Don Basilio. Don Alonso tells Bartolo that since he is staying at the same inn as Lindoro, he found out that Lindoro is just toying with Rosina’s feelings. Because of this, he earns the trust of the poor doctor. During their music lesson, Almaviva and Rosina declare their love for each other.

Figaro arrives to give Bartolo his shave and is able to snatch the key to Rosina’s balcony. Suddenly, Basilio shows up looking healthy. Almaviva, Rosina and Figaro then bribe him to go

home and because of his “scarlet fever”. After the commotion, the two lovers plot to elope that evening. Unfortunately, Bartolo overhears them and becomes furious of the fact that he got tricked once again. When Don Alonso and Figaro left the house, Bartolo tells Rosina that Lindoro plans on selling her to Count Almaviva. Furious and disappointed, Rosina agrees to marry the doctor. Bartolo is pleased and asks Basilio to call a public notary over.

That same night, Almaviva and Figaro sneaks in Bartolo’s house though the balcony window. Almaviva explains everything and reveals his true identity to Rosina. The notary arrives at that moment and the two decide to get married. Bartolo enters the room but it was too late. He accepts his defeat and Figaro, Almaviva and Rosina all celebrate the good outcome of their fortunes.

OVERALL REVIEW/CRITIQUE

The Barber of Seville is probably one of my favorite operas. Beautiful music, well-developed characters and witty humor all in one piece of work is truly a gift. Obviously I had high expectations before watching the video since the production features world-class singers Joyce DiDonato, Stefano De Peppo and William Browning—and I am just beyond ecstatic that this particular production of Rossini’s masterpiece did not disappoint at all.

DIRECTION

I’ve always believed that good direction is the main key in producing a good show. The Barber of Seville is James Marvel’s Wichita Grand Opera debut, and he truly made an impression. Based on his profile, he is known for balancing realistic, believable characters with outrageous comedy—and these descriptions were truly manifested all throughout the show. His actors focused on truth and authenticity which was very effective into making the story convincing.

SET DESIGNS/COSTUMES

I was not too crazy about the set design and costumes but it didn’t really matter for me because the artists’ energy really came through and surpassed the aesthetic aspect of the show.

CHOREOGRAPHY

I really loved the blocking and choreography! All movements and positions were more than just for visual purposes—they contributed to the effectiveness of every scene. The arias and ensemble numbers were easier to comprehend because the choreography served as visual assistance to the audience.

ARTISTS

More than anything else, the artists—the singers in particular—are the filling of the opera. All else may fail but not the singers. Yes, that much pressure to them, but that’s the truth. The success of the opera greatly depends on how well the singers deliver.

The Winchita Grand Opera featured Steffano De Peppo as the barber, Figaro. The way he played with his character was fantastic. He maintained his humor and liveliness during the entire show and his chemistry with the other actors—especially with Almaviva—was just superb. Vocally, there was no question that he is a perfect fit for the role. I truly felt the exuberating energy and emotion in every aria that he sang.

Almaviva was portrayed by William Browning. I think that he did a fairly good job as the Count but it was not that amazing for me. His performance vocal wise was not very consistent—particularly his running notes. There were times where it was clean and clear but unfortunately it was balanced by unstable passages. His interpretation though with the role was effective, in terms of the acting aspect. Like De Peppo, his humor and energy were effective in developing his character since everything was genuine and realistic.

The show wouldn’t be a success without the magnificent Joyce DiDonato as Rosina. She really has the inner Rosina her. Musically and/or vocally, she graced all her passages and phrases with ease and you’ll really feel how effortless she moves with the music of the orchestra. Of course her interpretation of Una voce poco fa is one of the show’s highlights.

Generally speaking, all artists delivered a high standard of performance. Everyone was believable in what they are doing and they all possessed authenticity and genuineness which made the story easier to understand and relate to.