I'm back! Remember me? Last time you heard from me was in December, when I told you about/went to see The Nutcracker. I also shared with you my very first experience at the opera when I attended Romeo et Juliette in November. Now, here I am again to tell you about my second trip to a Vancouver Opera production.
Sandra Piques as Eddy and Joshua Hopkins as Figaro. Photo Tim Matheson
This time around I had the pleasure of taking in Rossini's The Barber of Seville, conducted by Robert Tweten and directed by Dennis Garnhum. Being only my second time, I definitely still consider myself an opera rookie. I went there with an open mind, no prior knowledge, and no expectations. I honestly thought I was completely clueless when it came to this production. So imagine my surprise when the overture began and I actually recognized it! I have my old friend Bugs Bunny to thank for that...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=55G7T8VdWEs
The parallels between the actual opera and Bugs Bunny's rendition are few and far between. But aside from the famous overture, they share the aspect of comedy. To tell the truth I wasn't so sure about a comedic opera. But The Barber of Seville proved to be fun, silly, and lighthearted. It didn't let me down.
Thomas Goerz as Basilio, Thomas Hammons as Bartolo. Photo Tim Matheson
The Barber of Seville runs until March 25th at the Queen Elizabeth theatre. To learn more, and to buy tickets, visit VancouverOpera.ca
