A double bill on ambition, heartbreak, and despair, bringing together two powerful operatic works.
The Seven Deadly Sins / The Human Voice, directed by Alejandro Bonatto, brings together two operas performed one after the other. The show starts with The Seven Deadly Sins, with music by Kurt Weill and libretto by Bertolt Brecht. The Human Voice follows, with music by Francis Poulenc and libretto by Jean Cocteau. While the original creators of the two operas are different, the director draws on common elements from the two works to create a cohesive experience.
The Seven Deadly Sins comprises a cast of three: Katherine McIndoe (Anna, soprano), Harry Grigg (tenor), and Phil Wilcox (baritone). They are joined by Kepa Malgorzata (percussion), Adrian Salinero (keys 1 and musical direction), and Elspeth Wilkes (keys 2). McIndoe’s character often appears in scenes by herself, giving her the opportunity to showcase her vocal ability. Grigg and Wilcox often appear on stage together and are responsible for bringing humour to the opera, particularly through physical comedy. Overall, The Seven Deadly Sins was an enjoyable performance, in which the unique voices of the singers blended together effectively.
McIndoe, who plays Ella, is the only cast member in The Human Voice. Equally instrumental to the opera is Wilkes on the keys (also musical director), who accompanies McIndoe throughout the whole piece. They are joined by Salinero on the flute for a brief but significant section of the opera. The Human Voice gives McIndoe numerous opportunities to display her talent, which she takes full advantage of. Her performance is heartbreaking, both musically and from an acting perspective. An interesting aspect of this opera is that it shows us Ella’s experiences as she engages in a series of phone calls, of which we only hear Ella’s side. However, Wilkes’s piano is undoubtedly a second character in the opera, as it sometimes feels as though the piano is providing the other half of the conversations.
Bonatto’s set design is also praiseworthy. The chaotic set that characterises The Seven Deadly Sins contrasts sharply with the serene but beautiful set design used during The Human Voice, which conveys the emptiness that Ella is feeling.
The Seven Deadly Sins / The Human Voice will continue running at the Charing Cross Theatre until 19 September. We wish the cast and creatives a great run!
Complimentary tickets were provided.
Gonzalo
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