622 posts
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Post by AddisonMizner on Jul 14, 2024 19:12:22 GMT
I went to see ERNANI at Buxton International Festival this afternoon. It was my first time at the festival, and I was really impressed. I will definitely be going back!
The musical values were very high. It was played by the Orchestra of Opera North and conducted by Adrian Kelly, who really allowed the singers room to breathe.
Made up of choristers from other places, as well as recent graduates from the Royal Northern College of Music, the chorus made a really lovely sound.
Roman Arndt was a forthright Ernani, and Nadine Benjamin, a nicely sung Elvira. Andre Heyboer as Don Carlo was the main reason that I went to see this, and he was stunning. The voice soared over the orchestra with ease. Alastair Miles also had power in spades. The minor roles were sung wonderfully by young singers, Jane Burrell, Emyr Lloyd Jones, Theo Perry.
The production, directed by Jamie Manton was simple and in modern dress, but was very stylish. The use of lighting was particularly effective, creating some visually striking moments. There is some lovely use of light and shadow throughout, and a ‘halo’ of light in Ernarni’s death scene was a lovely touch.
There is one final performance of this on Wednesday, and it is well worth a visit.
5 stars.
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Post by Mr Snow on Jul 25, 2024 9:58:59 GMT
Buxton is one of my favourite places and a trip to the festival just moved even higher on my bucket list! Thanks
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