Photo courtesy of Houston Grand Opera
Last night was the final opening night of the Houston Grand Opera’s 2009/2010 season. The evenings opera was Handel’s Xerxes, an opera never before produced by the company. This rare gem was not only the last opera of the season, but it also had the distinction of being the best this season had to offer. From large, grandiose sets to lavishly plush costumes, to richly painted bursts of light, this opera packed a one-two punch that could not be beat!
The story of Xerxes is about the title characters' struggle with love. His affections belong to that of Romilda, but she loves his brother, Arsamene. Romilda’s sister in turn has her eye on Arsamenes. A huge love tangle ensues complete with mixed-up love letters, disguised lovers, duels to the “death,” and a marriage arranged by Romilda’s father, Ariodate, which throws an even bigger wrench into the plot. Confusing? Maybe a little, but all turns out well in this charming and sweetly amusing opera currently being staged at HGO.
This current HGO production spares no expense in creating the lush, plush feeling of the 17th century. Starting with the opening "credits" if you will. Each character is introduced as their name is projected on a large green drop that looks like an old leather bound book with gold leafing. Though slightly modern at times, it melds perfectly into each genre and creates an interesting visual effect. The large museum pieces only added to the grandeur and opulence of the period. Yet it remained simplistic at the same time with small green folding chairs and red velvet ropes. Putting the chorus in grayscale only made the lead characters pop all the more. But the star of the scenery was the cloudy sunset on the backdrop. It was simply stunning, and something magnificent to behold.
Michael Walling makes his HGO debut as the director. Amusingly unique, his style is surely something we will see in Houston again. The fabulous sets and costumes were designed by David Fielding, and the incredible and awe-inspiring lighting design was done by Paul Pyant. The nights conductor was William Lacey. Mr. Lacey showed fine craftsmanship of the Baroque period.
Our Xerxes was the internationally renowned mezzo-soprano Susan Graham. Before the performance, HGO’s general director Anthony Freud announced that Ms. Graham was not feeling well since the dress rehearsal, and that we were to be understanding. Had Mr. Freud not given the notice, the audience would have been none the wiser. She sang with her usual rich, warm voice that melted our hearts as she sang about the shade of her (rather small) tree in the opening, Ombra mai fu. This pants role is one well suited for her, but then again, she has proven time and time again that she is just as at home in Handel as she is in Strauss. Her brother, the jealous Arsamene, was played by countertenor David Daniels. Mr. Daniels is a master of expression and poetry. He could flex phrases and run coloratura all in the same passage, while always keeping the audience enwrapped. Soprano Laura Claycomb was the object of both mens desires. I have never heard such high notes floated with such ease before. Ms. Claycomb is a rare treat to behold every time she steps on stage. Playing her sister, Atalanta, was former HGO artist Heidi Stober. Ms. Stober sang with a dazzling, soaring voice that rang out into the house like crackling fireworks. Playing Elviro, Arsamene’s manservant was current HGO artist Adam Cioffari. Mr. Cioffari has a wonderful talent and a fabulous career ahead of him. He added great comedy to the piece in the second act and Im sure we will see more of him in seasons to come. In her HGO debut was contralto Sonia Prina as Amastre. Ms. Prina sang with absolutely perfect coloratura and a wonderfully warm contralto voice. Rounding out this stellar cast of singers was baritone Philip Cutlip as Ariodate. With the perfect blend of drama and comedy, his character was just a joy. Add in his deep, rich voice, and add the rest of this immensely talented cast of singers, and you have the best night of singing I have heard at HGO all season. Each and every singer a knockout in their own right. With a small dash of chorus (literally), and you have got a perfect night at the opera.
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