Dvořák’s dark opera sees a water nymph sacrifice all for a chance at human love—only to face tragic consequences.
Rusalka
Royal Opera House
Opera
London’s Royal Opera House presents Mozart’s timeless comic opera, a masterpiece brimming with captivating arias and emotional depth.
Riccardo Fassi’s portrayal of Figaro, the clever and quick-witted valet, is a revelation, marked by impeccable comedic timing. Equally captivating is Giulia Semenzato as Countess Almaviva, whose longing for love and dignity resonates in her aria, "Porgi amor," a true highlight of the performance.
Director David McVicar’s production stands out for its nuanced exploration of gender politics and power dynamics. Under the baton of Sir Antonio Pappano, the orchestra expertly transitions from Figaro’s ironic farewell to Cherubino in “Non più andrai” to the poignant “Dove sono,” where the Countess reflects on lost happiness. The Count’s plea, “Contessa, perdono,” remains one of the opera’s most moving moments.
(Director), (Conductor), Riccardo Fassi (Figaro), Giulia Semenzato (Susanna), Germán E. Alcántara (Count Almaviva), Federica Lombardi (Countess Almaviva), Hanna Hipp (Cherubino), Gregory Bonfatti (Don Basilio), Monica Bacelli (Marcellina), (Orchestra), (Composer)