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REVIEW: Boston Lyric Opera’s ‘Carousel’ illuminates in the darkest of times

Posted on April 12 by The Sleepless Critic

Anne Bogart establishes an immensely creative way to establish this carousel, but this one is enclosed behind a steel cage.

Under Anne Bogart’s symbolic direction, Shura Baryshnikov’s blend of sweeping and playful ballet-inspired choreography and beautifully conducted by David Angus, Boston Lyric Opera presents the 80^th Anniversary production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s musical Carousel continuing through Sunday, April 13 at Emerson Colonial Theatre in Boston, Massachusetts. The action is not limited to the stage and runs 2 hours and 50 minutes with one intermission. Click here for more information and for tickets. It also provides further information on Boston Lyric Opera’s upcoming Britten’s Noah’s Flood premiering for free in May.

Edward Nelson as Billy and Brandie Sutton as Julie in Boston Lyric Opera’s CAROUSEL. Photo by Nile Scott Studios

Based on the 1909 Hungarian play Liliom, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Carousel has stood the test of time as a classic musical with themes that have resonated with audiences and adapted in a number of ways over its 80 year history. It debuted right here on Boston’s Colonial Theatre stage for its pre-Broadway run on March 27, 1945 and Gordon MacRae and Shirley Jones starred in its 1956 critically-acclaimed film adaptation. It has also been revived onstage a number of times over the years, but its most acclaimed stage revival occurred in 1994. This dark and provocative depiction won multiple Tony Awards including Best Revival of a Musical, Best Choreography, Best Scenic Design, Best Musical Direction and a Best Actress win for Audra McDonald as Carrie Pepperidge.

However, I am most fond of it because I was part of a traditional college production as Mrs. Mullin. Dressed in a thick fur coat, leather maroon skirt and fishnet stockings, Boston Lyric Opera’s Sarah Heltzel holds her own as widow and carousel owner Mrs. Mullin. Streetwise, lovelorn and more than a little manipulative, Heltzel puts up a tough front that can barely conceal her true feelings for Edward Nelson as complicated and charismatic carousel barker Billy Bigelow.

Set in coastal Maine, Carousel tackles what has been considered controversial themes when it was released in 1945. Its portrayal of domestic violence, generational trauma and family pressures are some of the darker issues of this musical, but strength, faith, support and community stand just as tall in this production.

Olivia Moon dances at a celebration in Boston Lyric Opera’s CAROUSEL. Photo by Nile Scott Studios

Earon Chew Nealey and Haydee Zelideth collaborate to showcase wildly modern and vibrant wigs and shimmering costumes which include carousel workers dressed from a glimmering butterfly to elaborate horses. The script features a few subtle changes, but mostly sticks to the essence of the traditional production 80 years ago. Minor changes can make a big difference such as Jamie Barton’s rendition of When You Walk through a Storm instead of ‘hold your head up high,’ as Nettie’s building vocals advises ‘Keep your head up high.’ However, terms such as ‘scallywag,’ ‘riff raff,’ ‘pollywog’ and ideas such as mill workers having to be back for curfew in a boarding house sounds somewhat awkward within the contemporary glow of the production.

Carrie (Anya Matanovič) and Julie (Brandie Sutton) share a moment in Boston Lyric Opera’s CAROUSEL. Photo by Nile Scott Studios

Sara Brown’s mostly barebones set features a multipurpose wooden platform, winding staircase and a rustic wooden set with beach grass, a plant is fittingly and symbolically capable of weathering any storms or conditions. Brian H Scott’s multicolor lighting embellish these exuberant costumes, the rippling coastline, and its intense moments punctuated by an animated lit halo illuminated above the cast serving various purposes throughout the production.

Anya Matanovič as Carrie and Omar Najmi as Enoch in Boston Lyric Opera’s CAROUSEL. Photo by Nile Scott Studios

The orchestra swells and the cast delivers soaring harmonies and rich and flawless vocals. In denim cut off shorts, sparkling stockings and boots, soprano Brandie Sutton depicts mysterious Julie Jordan and in pink hair and an exuberant fuchsia tutu, soprano Anya Matanovic bursts with joy as Carrie Pepperidge. Cool and collected Julie with dreamy and transparent Carrie is the envy of all friendships. These are two strongly bonded women and their compelling and excitable camaraderie unfailingly lift each other up, look out for and support each other in every victory and heartache.

Edward Nelson as Billy Bigelow charms the crowd in Boston Lyric Opera’s CAROUSEL. Photo by Nile Scott Studios

In a black beard and orange suspenders, tenor Omar Najmi portrays staunchly traditional, practical yet big dreamer Enoch Snow. If you think Carrie has dreams, Enoch’s are bigger. Enoch is confident of his strengths and Matanovic’s Carrie clearly adores him. They embark on some sweet moments and humorously curious misunderstandings.

Boston Lyric Opera’s 80th anniversary production of CAROUSEL. Photo by Nile Scott Studios

In a white cowboy hat, black leather vest, tattered black jeans and multicolor hooded sweatshirt, baritone Edward Nelson strikes a chord in a powerful performance as prideful, defensive and contemplative Billy Bigelow. Nelson not only masters the inflection and intensity of the character especially in a humorous and stirring transformation for Soliloquy, but also captures Billy’s conflicted and anxious demeanor. Nelson shares some of that conflict with mysterious Sutton in a touching rendition of If I Loved You which isn’t love at first sight, but gently unfolds through song as the ensemble looks on. They are a consistent presence as stage hands making blossoms fall, workers and community members who are never far away.

Abigail Marie Curran (as Louise) in Boston Lyric Opera’s CAROUSEL. Photo by Nile Scott Studios

In a flowing black skirt and tied blouse, Abigail Marie Curran as misguided Louise is luminous expressing liveliness, longing, and loneliness in each delicate, athletic and dynamic step. In fatigues and work boots, baritone Markel Reed delivers some comical moments in slick and tricky Jigger who does little to conceal his shady motivations, especially during Blow High, Blow Low.

Markel Reed (as Jigger Craigin) and Edward Nelson (as Billy Bigelow) in Boston Lyric Opera’s CAROUSEL. Photo by Nile Scott Studios

In a billowing polka dot skirt and vibrant purple hair, mezzo soprano Jaime Barton is inviting as nurturing, wise and discerning Nettie. Barton is as playful in June is Busting out All Over and This was a real Nice Clambake as Rodgers and Hammerstein’s appetizing lyrics burst forth in succulent glory. When You Walk through a Storm is a masterpiece and Barton delivers it tenderly.

Nettie (Jamie Barton) and the townspeople post-clambake in Boston Lyric Opera’s CAROUSEL. Photo by Nile Scott Studios

It was a remarkable experience to revisit this beloved musical and Bogart’s latest vision does little to affect the show’s inherent story or the timeless message of hope and resilience in the darkest of times.

Boston Lyric Opera presents the 80^th Anniversary production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s musical Carousel continuing through Sunday, April 13 at Emerson Colonial Theatre in Boston, Massachusetts. Click here for more information and for tickets. It also provides further information on Boston Lyric Opera’s upcoming Britten’s Noah’s Flood premiering for free in May.

REVIEW: Boston Lyric Opera celebrated Morris Robinson and a revered love story with Verdi and Ghislanzoni’s stunning ‘Aida’

Posted on November 20, 2024 by The Sleepless Critic

For one night only, a revered love story caught between impossible choices took shape set in a war-torn country.

With over 200 artists involved including the Back Bay Chorale as well as Boston Lyric Opera Orchestra and Chorus, Boston Lyric Opera (BLO) presented Verdi and Ghislanzoni’s stunning Italian opera, Aida for one gala benefit performance during Veteran’s Day weekend on Sunday, November 10 at 3PM at the Emerson Colonial Theatre in Boston, Massachusetts. All funds raised benefited Boston Lyric Opera’s education, youth and community programs. Part of BLO’s You’ll Never Walk Alone themed season, this epic production ran 2 hours and 50 minutes including one 20-minute intermission. Click here for more information.

David Angus conducts the BLO Orchestra and BLO Chorus (Brett Hodgdon, Chorus Director) including members of Back Bay Chorale) Photo by Nile Scott Studios

Prior to the start of the production, the Boston Lyric Opera celebrated a milestone for renowned bass-baritone opera singer Morris Robinson. Twenty-five years ago to the day on November 10, 1999, Robinson debuted onstage in the role of the King for Boston Lyric Opera’s Aida. Not only was he named the 2024 Artistic Honoree, but Mayor Wu named November 10^th Morris Robinson Day. The honor was presented to him by his mentor Sharon Daniels. Once a Boston University college football player, a clearly moved Robinson delivered an inspiring and relatable speech about career pivoting and the stellar chance he received from Boston Lyric Opera.

Morris Robinson as Ramfis in Boston Lyric Opera’s AIDA – Photo by Nile Scott Studios

Robinson’s charismatic presence as well as his rich, deep and commanding vocals as Ramfis in the following production depicts why Morris has had a lasting presence with Boston Lyric Opera.

Having never seen Aida performed as an opera but twice before as the Elton John and Tim Rice’s musical, it was amazing to see Verdi’s version which is the foundation in which this story was told. With the Boston Lyric Opera orchestra center stage and the chorus situated behind them, Aida was treated as a gala event enlivened by Aja M. Jackson’s atmospheric lighting in pinks, reds, blues, and gold backdrop weaving in images and symbols from the Egyptian Book of the Dead. Jackson’s lighting had an encompassing effect creating a semi-panoramic view of images of multicolored Egyptian animals moving along the back of the theatre.

BLO Music Director David Angus leads the BLO Orchestra in Boston Lyric Opera’s AIDA – Photo by Nile Scott Studios

With trumpet accompaniment from the balconies, BLO conductor David Angus with Annie Rabbat, Brett Hodgdon, and Back Bay Chorale Music Director Stephen Spinelli navigates this complex orchestration of music to enrich this bold and compelling love story. Even with a brief pause during the production, Boston Lyric Opera handled the situation efficiently.

A fictional tale surrounding historical events, Aida explores a number of conflicted characters deliberating on love and loyalty during the Egyptian and Ethiopian war. Tenor Diego Torre delivers an impassioned performance as Radamès, an Egyptian commander in love with soprano Michelle Johnson as Ethiopian slave Aida while Aida’s father Amonasro, portrayed by baritone Brian Major, is a war prisoner. Mezzo-soprano Alice Chung delivers a multifaceted performance as resourceful Egyptian princess Amneris who wonders what it will take to win the love of Radamès .

Diego Torre as Radamès in Boston Lyric Opera’s AIDA – Photo by Nile Scott Studios

Adorned in gala attire rather than costumes, the cast’s powerhouse vocals exude despair, passion and desperation into characters facing impossible choices. Decked out in coat and tails, Torres evokes sympathy through his torment and soaring vocals as commander Radamès torn between his love for Aida and loyalty to his people. In a distinctive multicolored gown, Michelle Johnson illustrates the gravity of Aida’s rage, passion and despair over her decisions, torn between her secret love for Radamès and her own people. Johnson as Aida is bold, charming, and audacious while always carrying a heavy heart.

Michelle Johnson (l.) as Aida and Alice Chung as Amneris in Boston Lyric Opera’s AIDA – Photo by Nile Scott Studios

However, Alice Chung as shrewd and privileged Amneris has plans of her own and strategizes how to get what she wants. With dynamic range in a jeweled accented gown, Chung brings her own psychological warfare in a stunning duet with Johnson. Their intense and melodic vocals deliver gravitas in a suspenseful stand off as romantic rivals. Chung is confident and manipulative catching Aida at her most vulnerable, but also brings sympathy to her character in the looming fear of losing what she holds most dear.

(L.-r.) Stefan Egerstrom (King of Egypt), Brian Major (Amonasro) and Morris Robinson (Ramfis) in Boston Lyric Opera’s AID

Johnson’s Aida also shares a powerful scene with Major as Amonasro. Major is eloquent and stealthily convincing in a pivotal scene in which Aida is faced with the consequences of her decisions. This weighty exchange is filled with raw emotion and distress as she is backed into a corner.

The riveting harmonies, the fervent declarations, and the deeply romantic lyrical context of this production demonstrate why Boston Lyric Opera has returned to this memorable show over the years since first performing Aida at the Hatch Shell in 1981. Its rich exploration of passion, torment, war, and loss always has something new to say in a classic tale where love transcends everything.

Cast members and BLO Chorus (with members of Back Bay Chorale) in Boston Lyric Opera’s AIDA – Photo by Nile Scott Studios

Boston Lyric Opera (BLO) presented Verdi and Ghislanzoni’s stunning Italian opera, Aida for one gala benefit performance during Veteran’s Day weekend on Sunday, November 10 at 3PM at the Emerson Colonial Theatre in Boston, Massachusetts. All funds raised benefited Boston Lyric Opera’s education, youth and community programs. Click here for more information.

REVIEW: The Sudbury Savoyards presents Gilbert and Sullivan’s playfully witty farcical opera, ‘Princess Ida’

Posted on February 27, 2024 by The Sleepless Critic

Will it be love or war?

This is the question posed by King Hildebrand, grandly portrayed by Matt Tragert, as his kingdom anxiously awaits the arrival of Maria Bozich as fiercely independent Princess Ida.

Conductor Stephanie Beatrice with orchestra Photo by Sue Flint

With book by W.S. Gilbert, perceptive direction by Rebecca Graber, and compelling music by Arthur Sullivan conducted and musically directed by Stephanie Beatrice, The Sudbury Savoyards presents Gilbert and Sullivan’s timely farcical and romantic opera Princess Ida or Castle Adamant at Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School in Sudbury, Massachusetts live and in person through Saturday, March 2. The show is two and half hours plus one 15 minute intermission and presented in three acts. Click here for more information and for tickets.

Maria Bozich as Princess Ida and Women of Castle Adamant in ‘Princess Ida’ Photo by Chris Pollari

Though the production takes place during the Middle Ages, costume designers Sue Flint and Donna Roessler infuse contemporary flair to medieval garb in colorful plaids, pinstripes, wool, silks, and converse sneakers. A few modern props by Nancy Powers include Michael González as Hilarion cradling a sacred wedding box and a humorous moment when a jolly popcorn box and streamers lightheartedly fly overhead. It lends to the innate playfulness of the production even as Gama’s sons adorn nearly identical letterman sweaters marked with their first initial to form G A S. Gama’s sons include Matthew Garber as Guron, Blair Eig as Arac, and Santo Mammon as Scynthius who form quite the sibling trio and get into various predicaments along the way.

Blair Eig as Arac, Matt Garber as Guron, Santo Mammone as Scynthius, and Matt Tragert as King Hildebrand in ‘Princess Ida’ Photo by Sue Flint

Princess Ida or Castle Adament delves into the story of two kingdoms bound together by a royal marriage and a vow from twenty years ago. Brad Amidon as proud and amiable curmudgeon King Gama must reunite his daughter Princess Ida to Michael González as Prince Hilarion or there will be consequences. In a blue suit and hat, Amidon’s sneers and mischievous snickers are a highlight as King Gama secretly delights in grumbling about everything demonstrated in If You’ll Give me Your Attention. Tenor Michael González lends warmhearted and soaring vocals to depict earnest Prince Hilarion. González, David Smyth as Florian, and Thai Johnson as Cyril form another comic trio as they embark on a wild journey where women rule punctuated by the catchy Gently Gently and later Johnson creating an amusing scenario for Would You Know the Kind of Maid.

Brad Amidon as King Gama in ‘Princess Ida’ Photo by Chris Pollari

Adorned in a lilac suit and boasting a powerful and shimmering vibrato, Maria Bozich leads several strong female characters with a driven and commanding presence as Princess Ida who expresses ideas of her own making a grand entrance with the mighty O Goddess Wise. In a striking detailed suit, Soprano Sara DeLong charismatically expresses her own plans as calculating and poised Lady Blanche with Come Mighty Must. Her daughter Melissa, portrayed by Sara Mitnik, proves a worthy conspirator and shines with the cast for Death to the Invader. Soprano Danielle Shevchenko is an apt Lady Psyche and Shevchenko is memorable with González, Smythe, Johnson, and Mitnik for The Women of the Wisest Wit.

David Smyth as Florian, Michael Gonzalez as Hilarion, and Thai Johnson as Cyril Photo by Sue Flint

Boasting strong vocals and witty banter, Princess Ida or Castle Adamant takes a spirited look at gender roles and the royal monarchy. There are points within this opera where one may have to suspend one’s disbelief to make room for the absurd and this is a lighthearted production that it is humorous enough to do so. When watching the production, the program is an invaluable resource in understanding scattered era terminology and following the plot.

Women of Castle Adamant in ‘Princess Ida’ Photo by Chris Pollari

With book by W.S. Gilbert and compelling music by Arthur Sullivan conducted and musically directed by Stephanie Beatrice, The Sudbury Savoyards presents Gilbert and Sullivan’s timely farcical and romantic opera Princess Ida or Castle Adamant at Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School in Sudbury, Massachusetts live and in person through Saturday, March 2. The show is two and half hours plus one 15 minute intermission and presented in three acts. Click here for more information and for tickets.

REVIEW: Boston Lyric Opera’s ‘Madama Butterfly’ a mesmerizing and surprising metamorphosis

Posted on September 27, 2023 by The Sleepless Critic

‘I gave my tears into the earth, now it must give me back flowers.’

This is just a hint of Puccini’s masterful lyrics that encapsulates profound love and loss in Puccini’s epic classic 1904 Italian libretto Madama Butterfly presented live and in person at Emerson Colonial Theatre through Sunday, September 24. This expansive production was 2 hours and 25 minutes with one 20-minute intermission after Act 1. Click here for more information and more about Boston Lyric Opera’s season.

After their onstage wedding Butterfly’s Karen Chia-Ling Ho and Pinkerton’s Dominick Chenes love spills out onto the San Francisco streets PHOTO BY KEN YOTSUKURA

With heartrending direction by Phil Chan and stirring choreography by Michael Sakamoto, Madama Butterfly was delivered with an altered setting and contemporary flair over a period of time from 1941 to 1983. Puccini’s Madama Butterfly is a searing and brilliant love story and the source material for the Tony award-winning Broadway musical, Miss Saigon. This time, Madama Butterfly’s settings ranged from Hawaii to San Francisco to Arizona. Jeanette Oi-Suk Yew’s multifaceted lighting not only reflected the shadows and watercolor reflection in a lively nightclub but the rich purple and rose of the horizon at daybreak as moving set pieces transported the audience to contrasting settings. Featuring multicolor fans, contemporary yellow crowns, and regal military uniforms, Sara Ryung Clement’s distinctive, silky, and shimmering costumes in bursting color embellished the festivities of the Club Shangri-La in Chinatown in San Francisco, where Navy officer B. F. Pinkerton, depicted with enigmatic sweetness by tenor Dominick Chenes and soprano Karen Chia-Ling Ho as naïve, proud, bubbly and devoted Butterfly or Cio-Cio San meet in 1941. It will be a night they never forget.

Uncle Bonze Hyungjin Son center makes a shocking revelation about Butterfly Karen Chia-Ling Ho in BLOs new production of MADAMA-BUTTERFLY PHOTO BY KEN YOTSUKURA

Boston Lyric Opera’s production of Madama Butterfly had the audience gripped in a full range of emotions as the eye level live orchestra led by Annie Rabbat articulated Puccini’s moving array of arias punctuated by magnificent drums. Boasting angelic vocals, Chia- Ling Ho blossomed as Madama Butterfly, her coy yet fragile depiction poignant and buoyant as she navigated through a plethora of challenges during World War II and Pearl Harbor. Chenes and Chia-Ling had captivating chemistry only enriched by powerful vocals and enthralling dialogue. Mezzo soprano Alice Chung at first offered an understated performance as steadfast and loyal Suzuki, but Chung’s depiction gradually culminated into one of the most endearing characters of the production alongside Troy Cook as compassionate and protective Sharpless. Baritone Junhan Choi had a reduced role as Commissioner/Registrar in Madama Butterfly compared to the engineer’s meaty role in Miss Saigon, but Choi left his mark during each of his memorable scenes in a charismatic portrayal of dark humor and dastardly wit.

Suzuki Alice Chung l. laments the news Pinkerton Dominick Chenes brings with him in BLOs new production of MADAMA BUTTERFLY PHOTO BY KEN YOTSUKURA

Michael Sakamoto’s dynamic choreography ranged from delicate to fitful, most notably as Butterfly took the stage in a traditional dance with the Club Shangri-La performers and later in a stirring dance featuring Cassie Wang. Wang’s symbolic performance was peculiar, heartfelt, foreboding and so riveting that it may remain ingrained into the psyche long after the performance has ended.

During a visit from Officer Sharpless Troy Cook r. Butterfly Karen Chia-Ling Ho center reveals a secret in BLOs new production of MADAMA BUTTERFLY PHOTO BY KEN YOTSUKURA

Boston Lyric Opera’s Madama Butterfly took some liberties from the classic libretto that dealt in immigration, bigotry, and patriotism in a surprising array of twists and turns and proved to be a production that will not soon be forgotten.

Boston Lyric Opera presented Puccini’s Madama Butterfly through Sunday, September 24 live and in person at Emerson Colonial Theatre in Boston, Massachusetts. This expansive production was 2 hours and 25 minutes with one 20-minute intermission after Act 1. Click here for more information and more about Boston Lyric Opera’s season.

REVIEW: Boston Lyric Opera unveils a spellbinding ‘Bluebeard’s Castle/Four Songs’

Posted on April 2, 2023 by The Sleepless Critic

As waves splash against the Flynn Cruiseport Boston, Boston Lyric Opera unleashed a chilling tale of seduction and secrets.

Ryan McKinny as Bluebeard in BLOs Bluebeards Castle Four Songs. PHOTO by Liza Voll

Conducted masterfully by David Angus and craftily stage directed by Anne Bogart, Boston Lyric Opera unearthed Bartok’s Bluebeard’s Castle/Four Songs for a limited engagement live and in person from March 22-26 at Flynn Cruiseport in South Boston’s Seaport District. The show was 90 minutes with no intermission and had some adult themes. Click here for more information and for what is next for Boston Lyric Opera.

Aunt Lydia (Caroline Worra) leads the handmaids through their prayers in Boston Lyric Opera’s production of “The Handmaid’s Tale,” ran through May 12, 2019. BLO.org. Photo by Liza Voll/Boston Lyric Opera

Lauded Stage Director Anne Bogart was behind the innovative transformation of Margaret Atwood’s harrowing dystopian novel, The Handmaid’s Tale, into an opera and presented that vision in glorious triumph while the hailed author sat in attendance. See more about that experience here. Anne Bogart’s riveting vision of Bluebeard’s Castle/Four Songs is another brilliant and dark reckoning in which with each astounding discovery, the plot thickens.

Naomi Louisa OConnell opens BLOs Bluebeards Castle Four Songs with an Alma Mahler song featuring pianist Yukiko Oba. PHOTO by Liza Voll.

Suspenseful, passionate, and deeply romantic, Bluebeard’s Castle/Four Songs heightens the emotional impact of the libretto with Alma Mahler’s multifarious Four Songs. Conducted zealously by David Angus with pianist Yukiko Oba, Four Songs as a companion piece which amplifies the magnitude of what Judith is about to see.

A mysterious and passionate tale, the real seduction behind Bluebeard’s Castle is the symbolism that results as Judith, Bluebeard’s new wife, longs to let light in and see more of his ancient castle. She desires to learn everything about Bluebeard, a man she has given everything up for including a fiancé. However, Bluebeard would rather leave well enough alone and enjoy the love they have found.

Bass-baritone Ryan McKinny as Bluebeard and mezzo-soprano Naomi Louisa O’Connell’s otherworldly and ascending vocals bring vitality and urgency to each phrase and as a duet, their blended vocals are an ethereal experience. O’Connell is stunning as willful and persistent Judith, her oceanic teal gown glimmering against her incandescent red hair as she proclaims her love and deepest wishes for Bluebeard and their future together. Boasting a thick gray beard, McKinny’s stately, rugged and romantic Bluebeard is equally persistent at first. It is fascinating to watch the duo in an impassioned verbal tug of war, their thrilling chemistry becoming more and more feverish with each request. McKinny and O’Connell also have a believable playfulness that round out their relationship and temporarily ease that mounting tension.

Judith Naomi Louisa OConnell and Bluebeard Ryan McKinny celebrate the castle garden in BLOs Bluebeards Castle Four Songs. PHOTO by Liza Voll

Trevor Bowen’s impeccable and deceptive costuming added an alluring mystique to the production with Bluebeard in velvety deep blue and purple lined with gold, Judith in aquatic teal and what seemed like dancers adorned in glittering and flowing, yet bridled garments which included Marissa Molinar, Aliza Franz, Olivia Moon, Sasha Peterson and Cassie Wang. Victoria L. Awkward does a wonderful job in keeping these clandestine individuals within this changing landscape in a perfect blend of subtlety, vulnerability and strength while Judith and Bluebeard remain at center stage.

Judith Naomi Louisa-OConnell comes to terms with her potential fate in BLOs Bluebeards Castle Four Songs. PHOTO by Liza Voll

Bogart’s spectacular staging alongside set designer Sara Brown plays a pivotal role in Bluebeard’s dark secrets and it is done with elegance and ingenuity. The vast and multi-layered kingdom is revealed in Bluebeard’s inky and lavish bedchambers in an inventive display of silk sheets as rippling rivers, a vast and boundless secret garden on a bed of roses, and mountains of peerless gold and jewels. With Brian H. Scott’s artful lighting creating shadowy and ominous tones with startling streaks of red, Bluebeard’s Castle/Four Songs was a foreboding tale of love, power, desire and the sacrifices one is willing to make for the truth.

Conducted masterfully by David Angus and craftily stage directed by Anne Bogart, Boston Lyric Opera unearthed Bluebeard’s Castle/Four Songs for a limited engagement live and in person from March 22-26 at Flynn Cruiseport in Boston Harbor. Click here for more information and for what is next for Boston Lyric Opera.

REVIEW: Hosted by Jordan Rich, renowned Broadcast Hall of Fame recipient, author, veteran, and Boston radio legend Ron Della Chiesa celebrated his 85th birthday with a marvelous bash

Posted on March 1, 2023 by The Sleepless Critic

Ron Della Chiesa still spends his life doing the very thing that he loves best. When he is not sharing his extensive music knowledge on the air on Strictly Sinatra and Music America Sundays on Easy 99.1 FM or announcing for the Boston Symphony Orchestra or for Tanglewood under a warm summer sun, one of his biggest loves is opera. A frequent visitor to the MET, Ron’s father was an opera singer and Ron could passionately talk about opera from Giacomo Puccini to Marcello Giordani, two opera dynamos who are also the names of Ron and his wife Joyce’s beloved cats. Ron knows so much about opera that during the night of his 85^th birthday, he shared a little known fact about a famous opera singer and how the Phantom of the Opera musical really got its roots.

Raffaels in Hingham, MA Photo by Louise Lori Patricia

To the swinging sounds of Rico Barr and his Jump and Jive Band and hosted by Jordan Rich, Ron Della Chiesa’s 85^th birthday took place to a full house at Raffaels in Hingham, Massachusetts on Friday, February 17, the night before his real birthday.

Host Jordan Rich and Ron Della Chiesa Photo by Louise Lori Patricia

It seemed not so long ago that Ron was turning 70 and didn’t feel a bit like it. Still happily working in Broadcasting at 85, he still makes guest appearances to talk about Broadcast history, his popular book with bestselling author Erica Ferencik called Radio My Way and will be quick to tell anyone what still makes him fond of radio after all these years. Always good natured and positive, the theme of his birthday bash was ‘The Best is Yet to Come,’ not only named after a Sinatra song but the personal slogan of his amazing life.

Surprise appearance by Cha-Chi Loprete Photo by Jeanne Denizard

Tenor Matthew D i Battista sang the National Anthem to open this special evening. With guests invited to dress in red, people took to the dance floor to swing to an extensive list of American Standards performed by Rico’s band. The elegant evening even included a couple of songs Ron sang from Sinatra’s classic tunes.

Tenor Matthew DiBattista sings the National Anthem From L to R Ron Della Chisa Matthew DiBattista and Jordan-Rich Photo credit to Louise Lori Patricia

Music Director for the Boston Symphony Orchestra Andris Nelsons, renowned Boston Pops conductor Keith Lockhart, and popular jazz musicians Bo and Bill Winiker were among the special guests that sent their birthday wishes via phone. Popular DJ and close friend Cha-Chi Loprete surprised Ron with his presence. Born in Quincy, MA, Quincy Mayor Koch proclaimed February 18 as Ron Della Chiesa Day among many of Ron’s generous gifts. The evening also included birthday cake, cocktails, table seating, and countless guests reminiscing with Ron about his blessed life. Ron called it a magical evening he won’t soon forget!

Birthday slideshow produced by Christopher Desprez

Visit Strictly Sinatra and Music-America’s Facebook fan page for more photos of this celebrated evening. Ron’s Della Chiesa’s Strictly Sinatra and Music America offer occasional dance parties at Raffaels in Hingham, Massachusetts. The next event will be Ron Della Chiesa Strictly Sinatra Tribute Dance on November 3. Email musicnotnoise@aol.com, visit musicnotnoise.com or call Executive Producer Paul Schlosberg at 617-633-5100. To learn more about Ron, click here and listen to him on Easy 99.1 FM on Sunday night on Music America and Strictly Sinatra. Be sure to check out his memoir Radio My Way by Ron Della Chiesa and Erica Ferencik.

REVIEW: Boston Lyric Opera’s boxing opera ‘Champion’ a triumph in jazz

Posted on May 31, 2022 by The Sleepless Critic

The brutal world of boxing punctuated with the complex harmonies of jazz set to simmering opera? This premise might seem outlandish, but Terence Blanchard’s Champion An Opera in Jazz cleverly weaves these three elements together into an absorbing true story and cautionary tale of a welterweight boxer and a symbolic shoe that gains more significance than anything that takes place in the ring.

Boston Lyric Opera presented ‘Champion An Opera in Jazz’ Photo courtesy of Boston Lyric Opera

Boston Lyric Opera (BLO) presented their final show of the season, Terence Blanchard’s Champion An Opera in Jazz, for one weekend only through Sunday, May 22 at the elegant Emerson Cutler Majestic Theatre in Boston, Massachusetts. It is a shame this captivating production was limited to two exclusive concert-style performances in Boston, but it could not be helped due to COVID. Champion An Opera in Jazz has adult themes with one intermission. Click here for more information about the Boston Lyric Opera, upcoming events, and for details on BLO’s recently announced upcoming season.

Boston Lyric Opera 2022-23 season Photo credit to Boston Lyric Opera

As the chorus took up the boxes in the balcony to produce a resonant, semi-surround sound quality led by Brett Hodgdon, the orchestra warmed up and played onstage for the duration of the performance. With creatively engaging stage direction by Timothy Douglas, the intense drama and interaction within the strong cast far exceeded my expectations as concert versions of a work often focus more on music than plot. In a packed house, Blanchard leaves much to unpack in this show’s more than two hour time frame.

Brian Major as Emile Griffith Photo by David Angus/BLO

This introspective tale explores the complex relationships, trauma, abuse, neglect, and harrowing circumstances in welterweight boxer Emile Griffith’s life. However, what really affected me the most was just as Emilie Griffith discovers who he is and who he wants to become, he endures constant pressure and insistence from others to be the version they see in him. Griffith had the talent and ambition to craft his own vision, but his destiny ultimately takes a detour.

Musically-directed by David Angus, Champion is helmed by an insightful and fierce cast that eloquently evoke Michael Cristofer’s multi-layered libretto. Champion has plenty of heart and heartache, but also has a redemptive quality and joy in life’s smaller victories. Three versions of Emile Griffith portrayed by Brian Major as older Griffith, Markel Reed as younger Griffith, and Jonathan Harris as Little Emile Griffith each deliver a fresh perspective at pivotal points in Griffith’s life. With uplifting and humorous commentary at times to lighten the production’s darker moments, ring announcer Matthew Arnold serves fittingly as a semi-narrator of this work.

MARKEL REED, TERRENCE CHIN-LOY, AND BRIAN MAJOR IN BLO’S 2022 PRODUCTION OF CHAMPION: AN OPERA IN JAZZ Photo by David Angus/BLO

A profound and engaging baritone, Major is heartrending and charismatic as he delves deep into Emile Griffith’s continuing and complex struggles. Griffith has a lot to handle and it is touching to watch his sweet scenes with tenor Jesus Garcia as patient and grounded Luis.

Markel Reed delivers an exceptional portrayal as Young Emile Griffith. Reed’s dynamic vocals blended with the sheer mastery of Griffith’s physical and psychological transformation from a wide-eyed, idealistic, and determined young man to an adult with eyes wide open to his future is a marvel to watch. Jonathan Harris as adorable Little Emile Griffith makes a brief, yet significant mark in this story as well.

Stylishly adorned in a floral dress and matching hat, Tichina Vaughn strikes a delicate balance of playfulness, detachment, and mournfulness as mysterious and headstrong Emelda Griffith. This brilliant mezzo-soprano accomplishes a degree of sympathy for Emelda which is difficult to muster as Emelda struggles with her aching discontent, heartache, and constant need for greener pastures.

TICHINA VAUGHN AND CHABRELLE D. WILLIAMS IN BLO’S 2022 PRODUCTION OF CHAMPION: AN OPERA IN JAZZ Photo by David Angus/BLO

In a crisp blue suit, Wayne Tigges also brings some sympathy to tough-talking Howie Albert who has a skewed vision of Griffith, setting Griffith on an uncertain path. Wayne’s multi-layered, rage-inducing aria of Killer Instinct is prevalent throughout the show and Wayne’s rendition particularly makes it memorable. Tenor Terrance Chin-Loy as Benny ‘Kid’ Paret and soprano Chabrelle D. Williams as Sadie Donastrog Griffith both demonstrate their remarkable range in contrasting dual roles.

It was once difficult to imagine jazz as a boxing opera, but having heard the smooth, unpredictable, thrilling, and moody undertones as the music builds tension and urgency, I cannot imagine Champion An Opera in Jazz any other way. Champion’s unconventional and stirring delivery is just what makes the show’s ubiquitous message ring true.

Champion An Opera in Jazz was Boston Lyric Opera’s final production of the season. Click here for more information about the Boston Lyric Opera, upcoming events, and for details on BLO’s recently announced upcoming season.

REVIEW: Boston Ballet’s elegant and edgy ‘DREAMstate’ a fascinating departure from reality

Posted on March 26, 2022 by The Sleepless Critic

From classically fanciful to electrifying to distinctive, unconventional artistry, the Boston Ballet’s DREAMstate is an astute exploration of the delicate nature of dreams and a fascinating escape from reality. Aside from Boston Ballet’s traditional Nutcracker in December, Mikko Nissinen’s DREAMstate is the first live and in person return to Boston Ballet’s regular season since the pandemic. Excitement was in the air and the Boston Opera House was full.

Boston Ballet in George Balanchine’s Chaconne © The George Balanchine Trust; photo by Liza Voll; courtesy of Boston Balle

Boston Ballet’s DREAMstate continues through Sunday, March 27 at live and in person at the Citizen’s Bank Opera House in Boston, MA. The show is approximately two hours with two intermissions and the final piece contains partial nudity. Click here for more information and tickets.

Rolling Stones tribute DEVIL’s/eye Photo credit to Boston Ballet

Though all three Boston Ballet pieces had its highlights, the stellar world premiere of Boston Ballet’s tribute to the Rolling Stones, DEVIL’S/eye was the most uniquely compelling. Weaving in live concert elements and classic hits such as Can’t You Hear Me Knocking, Paint it Black and much more, dancers take the stage in shadow bathed in purple, red, yellow, pink, and blue glimmering from an incredible, multi-functional sound system lit by Brandon Stirling Baker. With exhilarating choreography and edgy and exotic costume design both by Stephen Galloway, lively dancers in silk, sequins, fishnets and windswept hair complete the full glamour of a rock and roll concert showing off thrilling, contemporary freestyle moves. The entire performance is an electrifying spectacle as dancers let loose to the Stones concert footage with epic alicicone spins, but a brief pause in the guitar-tinged, horn-infused rhythms showing off each dancer’s glowing silhouette cannot be properly conveyed here and those sensational moments are best witnessed in person.

George Balanchine’s Chaconne brings to life a regal and fanciful daydream to the heavenly sounds of the Christoph Willibald von Gluck opera, Orfeo ed Euridice. Elegantly adorned in a flowing and ethereal skirt and crown by Barbara Karinska in front of tranquil green blue backdrop, the always fresh-faced and charming Viktorina Kapitonova performed a beautiful and romantic pas de deux with Lasha Khozashvili, dressed in white. Khozashvili lifts and leads Kapitonova delicately as they sporadically intertwine. The piece is primarily playful as dancers bow and sway in gleaming, royal costumes as they float along this lighthearted daydream, the flutter of slippers sweeping across the stage.

Misa Kuranaga and Patrick Yocum in George Balanchine’s Chaconne © The George Balanchine Trust; photo by Liza Voll; courtesy of Boston Ballet

The final piece is probably one of the most unconventional performances the Sleepless Critic has ever witnessed with the Boston Ballet because after a brief intermission, the piece begins before the music starts and dancers are already in motion as the rehearsal blurs into the performance.

Altan Dugaraa, Sarah Wroth, Yury Yanowsky in Jiří Kylián’s Bella Figura; photo by Gene Schiavone, courtesy of Boston Ballet

Jiri Kylian’s Bella Figura, a fan favorite, often departs from reality and the structure of how a performance would normally flow. In many ways, it bucks tradition as the dancers float and slide between closing curtains as Seo Hye Han, topless, wraps herself in only a black stage curtain. Bella Figura has some captivating choreographed indignation and intensity as Ji Young Chae struggles not to be held or controlled by Paul Craig, shaking Craig away. Bella Figura seems an abstract piece with haunting and mysterious elements as female dancers are manipulated in sharp, robotic movements. It seems Bella Figura represents the vision of a perfect female specimen as women bend under the intensity and pressure to be perfect. In gathering rich red skirts, men and women, all topless and all looking the same, glide along the stage. It is a memorable, distinctive performance as the piece continues even as the music concludes.

Boston Ballet’s DREAMstate continues through Sunday, March 27 at live and in person at the Citizen’s Bank Boston Opera House. Click here for more information and tickets.

REVIEW: Gorgeously filmed, Boston Lyric Opera and Opera Philadelphia’s ethereal ‘Svadba’ a vivid and dreamy celebration of treasured moments before a wedding

Posted on February 4, 2022 by The Sleepless Critic

As Atlantic Ocean waves lap along the shore, renowned vocalists Chabrelle D. Williams, Brianna J. Robinson, Maggie Finnegan, Vera Savage, and Hannah Ludwig provide an intense and inspired a cappella chorus for an idyllic beachside cottage as a bride, what appears to be the mother of the bride, and bridesmaids prepare for a beautiful wedding. A wedding can stir up a myriad of powerful emotions from bitter sweet to pure joy as a couple starts a new life together and in a way, leaves the former one behind. Filled with rich traditions, rituals, and cultural customs, the days leading up to a wedding can provide life’s most unforgettable moments.

JUST BEFORE HER WEDDING CEREMONY BEGINS, MILICA (VICTORIA L. AWKWARD) SHARES A GRATEFUL MOMENT WITH LENA (JACKIE DAVIS) IN “SVADBA.” Photo courtesy of Boston Lyric Opera

Gorgeously filmed, seamlessly conducted by Daniela Candillari, and insightfully directed by Shura Baryshnikov (the daughter of legendary dancer and choreographer Mikhail Baryshnikov), Boston Lyric Opera presents in collaboration with Opera Philadelphia Channel, Svadba by Ana Sokolovic streaming now on Operabox.tv. The film is just under an hour. Click here for streaming access and more information.

(L.-R.) VICTORIA L. AWKWARD AS MILICA AND JACKIE DAVIS AS LENA IN “SVADBA.” Photo courtesy Boston Lyric Opera

Svadba, which is Serbian for ‘wedding,’ contains all the anticipation and beauty of the days building up to the big day. It is a pivotal time in a couple’s life, especially these times when family and friends gathering can be a hesitant and tricky venture. The glow of the bride-to-be is resplendent in Victoria Awkward as Milica, the loving stares of love and pride shine in Jackie Davis’s eyes as Lena and the beautiful bridesmaids excitedly bonding create a dreamy and ethereal presence in this picturesque setting.

What also makes Svadba so alluring is the intimacy among the group. From Victoria Awkward as bride Milica and Jackie Davis as Lena’s first encounter, it is easy to see the precious nature of a mother and daughter relationship, though the film does not specify the connection between them. Davis treats Awkward delicately, taking her hand and getting her ready while presenting to her family and cultural customs and heirlooms leading up to this big day. The sunlight peers into the cottage, illuminating the treasure trove of precious objects. There is a quiet outpouring of love between the two of them as Davis prepares Awkward for the future.

BRIDESMAIDS ZORA (SARAH PACHECO, L.) AND DANICA (JAY BREEN) PICK ROSEHIPS IN “SVADBA.” Photo courtesy of Boston Lyric Opera

Costume designer Albulena’s Borovci’s dynamic costumes vary from traditional and intriguing to unconventional with fantasy and flair. Sparkling, translucent, and understated gowns adorn bridesmaids Sasha Peterson as Maid of Honor Ljubica, Emily Jerant-Hendrickson, Sarah Pacheco as Zora, and Jay Breen as Danica. The pale green and coral complements the serene beachside landscape while a bride’s vivid daydream unleashes brighter and bolder attire.

JAY BREEN (AS DANICA, L.) AND VICTORIA L. AWKWARD (AS MILICA, IN WHITE) DANCE AS OTHER BRIDESMAID’S LOOK ON IN “SVADBA.” Photo courtesy of Boston Lyric Opera

Much of this opera symbolizes togetherness, the progression of growing up and finding where a woman fits in the world from the bride’s whirlwind feelings to family and friends perspectives. The choreography at times feels so intense that the dancers look like they are being taken over by the chorus’s powerful vocal harmony. From spontaneous frolicking to wild and intense dance rituals set to heavenly, trilling, and rhythmic vocals that narrate, navigate, and reveal the complicated feelings when one weds, Svadba is a spirited snapshot to this tumultuous and extraordinary rite of passage and a beautiful celebration of the future.

MILICA (VICTORIA L. AWKWARD, CENTER) AND HER BRIDESMAIDS RETURN TO THE COTTAGE AFTER GATHERING DECORATIVE FLORA IN “SVADBA.” Photo courtesy of Boston Lyric Opera

Boston Lyric Opera presents in collaboration with Opera Philadelphia Channel, Svadba streaming now on Operabox.tv. The film is just under an hour. Click here for streaming access and more information.

REVIEW: Boston Lyric Opera’s season opener ‘Cavalleria Rusticana’ a passionate and magnificent affair

Posted on October 17, 2021 by The Sleepless Critic

Not even Easter Sunday can stop a scandal in the Sicilian countryside.

Featuring distinct, eye-popping costumes, a glorious Opera Chorus led Brett Hodgdon, and a full orchestra, Boston Lyric Opera (BLO) opened their season on a grand scale with the renowned one act Italian libretto, Cavalleria Rusticana for just two performances on October 1 and 3. Boston Lyric Opera was greeted by an enthusiastic crowd anticipating BLO’s return to a live venue for 18 months. Delivered on a concert scale, Cavalleria Rusticana was presented under Leader Bank Pavilion’s open air tent in the Seaport District in Boston, Massachusetts. It ran for 1 hour and 10 minutes with no intermission.

JAVIER ARREY AS ALFIO WITH DANCERS VICTORIA L. AWKWARD, MICHAYLA KELLY, AND MARISSA MOLINAR Photo by Liza Voll/Boston Lyric Opera

Loyalty, love, honor, and faith are tested among this group of passionate players. Led by Music Director David Angus, the seemingly joyous overture delivers an exciting rush woven into a sense of foreboding, hinting at turmoil among still waters on the holiest of days, Easter Sunday. Introducing the libretto is an interactive and unparalleled performance of Pagliacci’s Prologue by Javier Arrey. Taking a reflective, humorous, and philosophical tone addressing the audience over what they are about to see, Cavalleria Rusticana becomes a passionate and cautionary tale, pleading about the affects of love and the human spirit.

Julia Noulin-Merat’s standalone set pieces, including overturned chairs piled high in pale pink as well as bright yellow chairs lining the stage, pop as does Gail Astrid Buckley’s distinct, vivid costumes with blooming flowers set against the orchestral backdrop depicting the emergence of a Sicilian spring.

CHELSEA BASLER AS LOLA WITH DANCER MICHAYLA KELLY Photo by Liza Voll/Boston Lyric Opera

It is easy to get invested in these headstrong characters and Cavalleria Rusticana hits the ground running steeped in a complex love affair as the sacredness of Easter surrounds them, emphasized by ethereal dancers Victoria Awkward, Michayla Kelly, and Marissa Molinar and the swelling of the Boston Lyric Chorus’s powerful and spiritual lyrics.

Michelle Johnson as conflicted Santuzza leads this magnificent cast, delivering a splendid, heartrending performance. Filled with sorrow and longing, Johnson’s tremendous vocals and her searing confrontation with Turiddo, portrayed with a charismatic yet manipulative mystique by Adam Diegel, show Johnson is a force to be reckoned with. Chelsea Basler depicts alluring and complicated Lola with infuriating and masterful charm and the heart of the show lies with loyal and compassionate Nina Yoshida Nelsen as Mamma Lucia who observes it all much like the audience, with bated breath.

MICHELLE JOHNSON AS SANTUZZA AND NINA YOSHIDA NELSEN AS MAMMA LUCIA
Photo by Liza Voll

The show is delivered entirely in Italian and with subtitles at significant parts of the production. However, for someone who does not know Italian and with a production so captivating, it is difficult having to forego not knowing every single word spoken from this enthralling cast.

Cavallaria Rusticana takes place in 1900’s Sicily and yet this opera is as timeless as any contemporary story told today and a perfect choice to open Boston Lyric Opera’s new season which includes virtual and live and in-person performances including jazz-themed opera Champion and Svadba through operabox.tv. Click here for more information and a closer look at BLO’s new season.