The Elixir of Love

A Grand Night out at the Opera. L’elisir d’amore 'The Elixir of Love' follows Adina (Moira Docherty), the beautiful but fickle landowner, and Nemorino (Sebastian Penalver Figuerado), the clumsy but lovable young man, through the ups and downs of their love story. Nemorino is madly in love with Adina, but Adina holds him at arm’s length, feigning indifference to tease him. Over and over again, he professes his love to her, but she tells him to move on. Adina teases him by pretending to marry the pompous Sergeant Belcore (Russell Malcolm). Desperate, Nemorino purchases an “elixir” from Doctor Dulcamara (Brian Boardman), a travelling salesman specialising in medicines that will make Adina fall in love with him, which actually is red wine that simply makes him tipsy. Convinced that she will fall for him, he begins to pretend not to love her anymore, which causes Adina to act out of jealousy, moving the wedding forward. After many twists and turns, Adina finally realizes and confesses her love for Nemorino, and they rejoice with the town.

The Elixir of Love is a romantic classical opera by Donizetti. This was a well staged heartwarming tale set to incredible music. Its very funny.

The strong ensemble were animated and their vocals confident, setting the scenes and the mood ably.  

This performance was led by accomplished principals,  Brian Boardman demonstrated his comedic skills as Doctor Dulcamara with clear vocals and joyful facial expressions. 

Russell Malcolm was convincing in the role as the villian Sergeant of the Village Garrison. His delivery was captivating with superb pitch and perfect diction.

Moira Docherty was charming in the role of Adina creating a realistic portrayal of the wealthy landowner who spurns the advances of a hired hand. I do not profess to be an expert in opera but fascinating to witness the ease in which her technically demanding coloratura lines were delivered.

Sebastian Penalver Figuerado portayed a strong Nemorino, with good stage presence.

The portrayal of Gianetta played on the night by Kirsty McRobbie was clear and confident.

The 20 strong orchestral accompaniment under the baton of Richard Johson was rich and fluid. There were a couple of occasions where I would have preferred the use of microphones as the lead vocalists were slightly drowned out by the wall of sound. 

Well done Tayside Opera, A very enjoyable evening. Thank you for inviting me.

 

 

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