Thank you for such a positive review of BYO's Rape of Lucretia, Hugh. I saw both casts too (but on the two nights between your visits!) and thought exactly the same. So interesting how a change of cast can change the nuances of a production so significantly. As a (relatively) new Trustee of BYO, it was a very proud week for me and I hope the company will be contributing to the future of opera for many years to come. Something I believe in passionately (as you know!)
Simon - thanks for the feedback. I surprised myself because Lucretia is not only NOT my favourite Britten opera, but one I tend to avoid because of my antipathy to many of the libretto's sentiments. I was hugely impressed both by the quality of the singing/acting and the resourcefulness of the staging in a tiny and not obviously theatrical space!
Interesting write-ups and an atmospheric venue. I understand the misgivings, it can provide queasy moments.
For some reason the ‘like’ facility is not working for me on this page.
Thank you for such a positive review of BYO's Rape of Lucretia, Hugh. I saw both casts too (but on the two nights between your visits!) and thought exactly the same. So interesting how a change of cast can change the nuances of a production so significantly. As a (relatively) new Trustee of BYO, it was a very proud week for me and I hope the company will be contributing to the future of opera for many years to come. Something I believe in passionately (as you know!)
Simon - thanks for the feedback. I surprised myself because Lucretia is not only NOT my favourite Britten opera, but one I tend to avoid because of my antipathy to many of the libretto's sentiments. I was hugely impressed both by the quality of the singing/acting and the resourcefulness of the staging in a tiny and not obviously theatrical space!