Puccini’s classic returns in this brilliantly revitalised version by the incredible OperaUpClose, in partnership with Mayflower Southampton!
This limited tour is an English version written by Hannah Kumari of the classic Puccini opera, re-orchestrated by Vahan Salorian. The show features the classic pieces which have been beloved for many years, with a slight twist inspired by modern day murder mystery movies (such as Knives Out). Offering a refreshing new take on the piece, OperaUpClose is an opera company eager to change the normal perceptions of what an opera is or should be. By changing the narrative, they aim to open opera up to a more diverse group of individuals and allow for greater engagement throughout the opera theatre experience.
Gianni Schicchi (or Where There’s a Will) is set within the fictional seaside town of Harmouth, which is similar to some UK seaside towns. A wealthy home owner is throwing one final seasonal soirée before the end of the season. As the evening continues, Gianni Schicchi arrives on scene. Revelations unravel and individual moral choices emerge as the characters attempt to understand who is accountable when no one wishes to take accountability. The premise is fun and uplifting, feeling modern whilst keeping traditional opera sensibility. PJ Harris directs effectively and works well alongside the musical director from Erika Gundenson.
Anna Yates is the designer and has done a great job, making it feel very modern and wealthy. The sets presents as a luxury seaside house, perfect for this setting. In addition, the cast are able to navigate this effectively through Natasha Harrison’s movement direction: navigating the playing space joyfully. To add further, Rachel Sampley’s lighting is impactful, helping to move the opera along and keep the setting realism intact. Ri Barroche completed the spoken word overture, giving a fresh take on this in a podcast style which was thoroughly enjoyable.
The company is full of brilliant performers, giving a phenomenal performance throughout. Each role felt important in the opera and each offered a unique voice: giving way to a great experience. The musicians were brilliant, being able to mix between acting and playing their instruments. The entire cast worked well together, with John Molloy, Emma Morwood, Felicity Buckland and Aaron O’Hare playing the stereotypical ‘posh’ individuals really convincingly. Dan D’Souza plays the title character of Gianni as confident and sly, and was able to work well with the rest of the cast. He also had a phenomenal voice, soaring through each note. Ceferina Penny was the stand out voice in the piece, with the most beautiful voice throughout the show.
We highly recommend catching Gianni Schicchi (or Where There’s a Will) on this limited tour before you miss it!
Tickets for this performance were provided complimentary. Many thanks to the production team and PR team for the invitation.
Max
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