theguardian.com
Opera and Piano Recital Reviews
Review of three performances: Jonathan Dove's opera, a two-piano recital by Wang and Ólafsson, and ENO's Rigoletto.
English
United Kingdom
EntertainmentReviewPerformanceConcertClassical MusicOpera
Berlin PhilharmonicRoyal Academy Of MusicRoyal Opera HouseSheffield Music HubEnglish National Opera
Jonathan DoveYuja WangVíkingur ÓlafssonRichard FarnesWeston Hurt
- What are the three main performances reviewed in the article?
- The review covers three different performances: Jonathan Dove's opera "The Monster in the Maze," a two-piano recital by Yuja Wang and Víkingur Ólafsson, and English National Opera's production of Rigoletto. Each event is described and evaluated.
- What are some of the major themes and contrasts discussed in the article?
- The article highlights the emotional impact of operas dealing with missing children, contrasting childhood fairytales with the harsh realities depicted in operas like "The Monster in the Maze." It also emphasizes the contrasting styles of the two pianists, and the success of ENO's updated Rigoletto production.
- Summarize the two-piano recital featuring Yuja Wang and Víkingur Ólafsson.
- Yuja Wang and Víkingur Ólafsson's two-piano recital at the Royal Festival Hall showcased their contrasting yet complementary playing styles. Despite their differences, their performance of works by Berio, Adams, Rachmaninov, and Schubert was richly entertaining and ecstatically received.
- What are the highlights of English National Opera's production of Rigoletto?
- English National Opera's production of Rigoletto, set in a 1950s New York setting, is praised for its strong cast, superb conducting by Richard Farnes, and expert orchestra and chorus. This updated version is considered one of the best adaptations of the opera.
- Describe the recent performance of Jonathan Dove's opera "The Monster in the Maze" in Sheffield.
- Jonathan Dove's opera "The Monster in the Maze" was recently performed in Sheffield, featuring a new arrangement with added upper strings played by students alongside professionals. The production involved 140 people of all ages, incorporating community choruses and creating a powerful drama.