Opera Review

Genre: Romance

Starring: Peter Kirk, Sydney Mancasola, Christopher Ainslie, John Chest

If there is one dramatist who even after centuries can manage to provoke and ignite the Lala Land in every grown up, it is the Bard Shakespeare. And what great treat for the eyes and mind can it be to witness one such spectacular drama from this 16th century master in Oman.

The timeless allure of William Shakespeare’s genius found its way to the sultanate with a mesmerising performance of A Midsummer Night’s Dream opera at the Royal Opera House Muscat (ROHM) on the weekend of February 9 and 10.

This rendition, presented in operatic form, was nothing short of a theatrical spectacle that seamlessly blended comedy, drama, magic, and passion. The evening unfolded as a captivating journey through the enchanted realms of Shakespeare’s classic.

The opera showcased a rich tapestry of characters, from fairies and lovers to clowns, ensuring the audience was treated to the full. Under the direction of Laurence Dale, the production breathed new life into this 16th-century masterpiece.

What truly stole the show was the remarkable 3D stagecraft which was simply awe-inspiring. The stage transformed into a magical forest, adorned with layers of giant oak trees that seamlessly shifted moods from romance to suspense, adorned with a kaleidoscope of hues, creating a visual feast for the senses. The stage also added comic relief with animals like a donkey and bear and a flying magician.

The stellar cast, led by Peter Kirk as Lysander, Sydney Mancasola as Titania, Christopher Ainslie as Oberon, and John Chest as Demetrius, brought Shakespeare’s characters to life with unparalleled grace and skill. Their performances added depth and nuance to the already enchanting narrative, making this collaboration between the Royal Opera House Muscat and Teatro Carlo Felice di Genova a resounding success.

As the curtains fell on this magical opera, it was evident that A Midsummer Night’s Dream had not only transcended time but also geographical boundaries, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of the audience in Oman.

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