Semele

This work, by Handel, was originally an Oratorio but was converted into an opera at a later date. North Norfolk Chamber Opera played the piece ‘in the round’ in an area to the rear of this beautiful church.   The acoustics were fabulous, as we should expect from a building of such age and stature and we could hear every word clearly with no mics required.   There was an excellent 8-piece chamber orchestra, very ably conducted by MD Mark Jones.   The piece had a variety of moods, comedy, tragedy and drama.

The minimal set comprised rostra and chairs and furnishings at opening and was moved as required by the company.

The cast processed for the proposed wedding of Semele to Athamus, all dressed in their best ‘going to wedding clothes’ and positioned themselves for the opening chorus.   What an impressive sound they made, with every member up to solo standard.  The clarity of the sound and vocals was very impressive, we heard every syllable in each part.

Catherine Joule played Athamus, is keen for this diplomatic marriage to be carried out. She had some nice vocals.   But Semele, played by Melissa Sampson, had persuaded her father Cadmus (Andrew Masterson, with beautiful mellow tones) that she would not go through with it.   It was a huge part for Melissa with many high notes and the addition of so many lively mood and drama changes in her love pursuit of Jupiter, played by Katharine Jones with strong personality and vocal range.   This couple worked well together, Juno (Denise Bridge) seemed to orchestrate a lot of the action and was in command of the situation, again with good vocals.   Her secretary Iris (Nicole Zwier, a newcomer to the group) was very active throughout and she has a nice voice.  Julie Bjerregaard was Ino, sister to Semele; she sang well and gained her wish for a marriage to Athamus.

The whole piece was very Handel, and it was so good to listen to balanced voices and musicians. I must confess that ‘Where ‘er you walk’ was the only aria that I recognised!

Thank you for a most enjoyable evening.

 

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