An intense drama opera has arrived in Cambridge!
Pagliacci is an Italian Opera with music by Ruggero Leoncavallo. The piece tells the tale of Canio, who becomes concerned that his wife is having an affair during his rehearsals for an upcoming opera. The show embodies this story alongside the operatic sound to make a fantastic performance. Eleanor Burke (founder of Green Opera) makes her directorial debut with English Touring Opera (ETO). Burke has found the perfect balance between entertaining and passion within this piece. English Touring Opera is a well-established theatre group which produce ambitious productions across the UK. After watching Gianni Schicchi, we were intrigued to find out more about Pagliacci.
The set starts as quite simple before opening up to show a more complete, colourful set for the play within the play. This allowed for a vibrant and bountiful acting space for the actors to explore their characters. The costumes worked effectively to portray the characters when in the play and when out of the play. Specifically, in act 2, the costumes were colourful and eye catching: which allowed the audience to feel engaged in the play. This revival modernises Pagliacci in a creative way, allowing audiences to fall in love with the score all over again.
The live band were phenomenal, playing these traditional tracks in an innovative and engaging way. Similarly, the ensemble were able to add both vocals and energy into each scene. Having them sit around the stage watching the conflict unravel was a great touch, and in some ways reminds me of the players in Pippin. Harry Grigg plays Beppe, another player in the troupe who stays mainly out the conflict. Adding a grounded character allows for the story to flourish amongst the other players. Danny Shelvey plays Silvio, Nedra’s secret lover affair partner. Shelvey was able to deliver some stellar vocals and showed emotion within his acting very well.
Matthew Siveter plays Tonio, a potential lover interest for Nedda till she turns him down. Tonio is often the source of tension and Siveter plays this incredibly well: adding a strong vocal performance alongside his acting. Ronald Samm plays Canio, Nedda’s partner and a player of the group. Canio becomes enraged over Nedda’s affair and this changes his characterisation. Samm is able to effortlessly perform both sides and had strong vocals too. Paula Sides plays Nedda. Nedda is a complicated character and Sides is able to portray this with care and enthusiasm. Her vocals are the most utilised within the production and they soar effortlessly!
Pagliacci continues touring till May 20th. Book now!
Tickets for this production were provided complimentary. Thank you to the English Touring Opera company and The Arts Theatre Cambridge for the invitation!
Max
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