Handel's Xerxes

With fabulous acoustics, this lovely church was once again the venue for North Norfolk Chamber Opera. The only remaining opera company in Norfolk, NNCO still exists, unlike Norfolk Opera Players, Phoenix Opera and Claxton Opera, which have all disappeared.

Played in the round and using every inch of the acting space (four entrances) to give interesting patterns and groupings in the given space by Stage Director, Paul Hands. The set (built by Crispin Clark) was a series of rostra and steps to give some height, the Plane tree and a seat. Later the bridge was brought on (and removed) by the soldiers.

The chamber orchestra of eight players under Musical Director, Mark Jones, was exemplary, a dream, and a delight to listen to.

A complex story with twists, and so many of the leading roles begin with an ‘A’: how sensible to open with Sue Andrews introducing the main characters.

Xerxes (Denise Bridge) is found sitting under a Plane tree and enchanted by some singing falling instantly in love with the singer Romilda (Catherine Joules). Dressed in Zelensky style and full of presence and command in battle, a very strong performance from Xerxes as he tries to persuade Romilda to be his love. She is in love with his brother Arsamenes (Katharine Jones), very good relationship and duets. Even though not officially engaged, he woos the lady with persistence. Meanwhile Atalanta (Melissa Sampson) who is sister to Romilda is also in love with him and would like to break up the relationship, a very light and flighty performance, this role giving some humour to the piece. To add to the complexity of the story, fiancé to Xerxes Amastris (Julie Bjerregaard) is in disguise as a soldier so that she can be near him, and how unhappy she is with the situation. A complex situation. Father to Romilda, Ariodates (Andy Masterson) a very strong voice, is all for his daughter’s choice for marriage. Add in Elviro (Peter Walters) as the servant of Arsamenes to run messages, send notes and flowers and generally try to help the plot along. All these principals in good voices with strong vocals and good blending, plus a chorus of soldiers, servants, refugees from the war to give a memorable sound. And eventually the twisted story resolves itself and all ends happily.

Another evening of enjoyable chamber opera.

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