Puccini’s La Bohème is one of opera’s most enduring and endearing tragedies. We can't think of a better excuse to indulge a little case of the weepies.
As suggested in a previous interview with Michigan native Bernard Holcomb, who plays Parpignol in this Michigan Opera Theatre production, the story could easily describe the Detroit artistic community. And in fact, La Bohème has been the inspiration for such modern musicals as Rent and Moulin Rouge.
Even so, it’s hard to beat the original story of young love and heartbreak – set in the artistic bohemian quarter of 1830s Paris and filled with some of the most lovely music ever composed.
This MOT production, which opened Saturday night and runs through November 21st, showcases the talents of soprano Kelly Kaduce, who is flawless as Mimi. Ms. Kaduce made her MOT debut in 2005, creating the role of Caroline Gaines in the world premiere of Margaret Garner. She alternates with Italian soprano Grazia Doronzio, who will sing the role of Mimi on November 19 and 21.
Indeed, the entire cast of featured soloists and alternates is impressive, and it’s hard to imagine any performance, with either cast, that isn’t up to MOT’s high standards. Rodolfo is sung by Sardinian tenor Francesco Demuro (Nov. 13, 17, 20) and by American tenor Noah Stewart (Nov. 19, 21) who was so compelling as Ismaele in MOT’s Nabucco last season.
MOT regulars will also be glad to see Michigan native Kimwana Doner return as Musetta. Ms. Doner made her MOT debut in 2008 in La Rondine as Yvette. We are always moved by big-hearted Musetta, and Ms. Doner fills the role splendidly, with her big, warm voice and overt sensuality.
It was also a treat to hear baritone Marian Pop again. We fell in love with him when he created the title role of Cyrano in David DiChiera’s world premiere opera, and Mr. Pop returns to give us a most engaging Marcello (Nov. 13, 17, and 20). Baritone Corey McKern, who recently sang as Marcello at Opera Hong Kong and Santa Fe Opera, performs the part on the 19th and 21st.
The cast also includes Andrew Gray as Colline, Lee Gregory as Schaunard, Jason Budd as both Benoit and Alcindoro, and Bernard Holcomb as Parpignol. Italian conductor Giuliano Carella returns to MOT after conducting last spring’s outstanding Tosca. And MOT favorite Mario Corradi directs.
Having seen La Bohème multiple times at MOT, including the spectacular 2005 production and the show that opened the new Detroit Opera House in 1996, it seems there is always something that stands out with each production.
At Saturday’s opening, we were struck by the MOT Children’s choir – their vocals were crisp and chimed like so many little bells. Lovely.
But what especially struck us was Andrew Gray’s moving performance as Colline, and the gem-like aria, Vecchia Zimarra, which he sings to the old coat pawned to help buy medicine for Mimi. Bravo.
You can still catch this romantic production of La Bohème at the Detroit Opera House on Wednesday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. or on Sunday at 2:30. Tickets can be purchased at the box office, by phone at 313.237.SING, at the MOT website or through any Ticketmaster outlet.
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