|
<<< << -- 6 -- Roderic Dunnett A GODSEND -- >> >>>
The cast and the characterisation were a treat. It helps to have well-differentiated minor characters, and both the loyal, supportive Colline (Martin Lamb) and the festive Schaunard (Andrew Mayor) brought by turns hearty, bluff, benign and impish personalities to their respective roles.
High jinks in the garret, led by the versatile Schaunard (Andrew Mayor). Photo © 2007 Sebastian Fattorini, Skipton Castle
|
Schaunard initiates the clowning, is the foursome's jolly master of ceremonies, and Mayor seemed well fitted for the task. The comic posturing, charades and bread-fights were fun, all decently rehearsed and skilfully managed in a constricted performing area.
Colline (Martin Lamb, conducting with bread baton) and Marcello (David Palmer, in headscarf) whip up the fun. Photo © 2007 Sebastian Fattorini, Skipton Castle
|
Lamb's bass-baritone brought a tenderness and warmth to Colline's thoughtful interventions, even though his lament at parting with his old overcoat briefly veered, ever so slightly, off-key. His is the securer voice, however: Mayor's Schaunard was more vital, but not quite as well supported. But the lively battle which the four inhabitants of the garret fight with poverty, cold and starvation is designed to offset, paradoxically, the starker elements of this tragic opera. In their turn both Colline, the pawner of his old coat, and Schaunard the jester lent touching warmth, sympathy and pathos to Mimi's last hours.
Colline (still in his coat) and Schaunard look on as Rodolfo supports the dying Mimi in Act 4 of Puccini's opera. Photo © 2007 Sebastian Fattorini, Skipton Castle
|
Continue >>
Copyright © 15 April 2007
Roderic Dunnett, Coventry UK
|
