Sydney Reviews

Left – Emma Matthews. Cover – The Cast. Photos – Branco Gaica

Opera Australia really knows how to put on a good show. And with international recognition this is apparent even before the show begins. A packed opening night, flooded with men and women of all ages dressed to the nines. It’s all about what happens on stage but the audiences do contribute and tonight they made it an extra special experience.

The story of Lakmé is simple, so as to not overshadow the stellar performances coupled with the set and costuming. Set in the mid-19^th Century in India during the British Raj, many Hindu’s are forced to practice their faith in secret. A British party arrives and one, Gerald (played by Aldo Di Toro), sees Lakmé (Emma Matthews) – the daughter of a Brahmin priest. They fall in love, however Nilakantha (Lakmé’s father, played by Stephen Bennett) believes that Gerald had trespassed and vows to revenge him.

In terms of aesthetics, Lakmé is ever so pleasing to the eye and ear. The set and props were phenomenal, hidden under a colourful sheer curtain. The costumes were so bright and radiant, you really felt like you were taking a peek into India, especially in Act 2’s market scene. The sets, which changed with every Act, looked like there was so much work put into them. A special mention must go out to the designer, Mark Thompson.

The song you’ll feel like you’ve heard before is the Flower Duet sung by Emma Matthews and Dominica Matthews. The song was utilised in many films (beginning with The Hunger [1983]), many TV advertisements (including British Airways) and popular music. The duet is the highlight of the production and sounds even more mystical when the women continue to sing offstage.

It’s not hard to see why Emma Matthews is considered one of the greatest opera singers Australia has to offer. As Lakmé, she is startlingly perfect and the audience lets her know it. A principal at Opera Australia, she will be seen again later in the season in The Love of the Nightingale and in the 2012 season’s La Traviata (which will be staged afloat on Sydney Harbour). Gerald, played by Aldo Di Toro, is just amazing. His skilful voice is only superseded by his ability to master the French language (which all of the cast do and, not to worry, there are surtitles to help audiences follow the story).

Lakmé promises to be a big night, so make sure you eat a good meal beforehand. Three hours including two twenty minute intervals and I’m telling you, it goes pretty quickly. This kind of theatre is a sure treat and will make you feel like royalty.


Opera Australia presents
Lakmé
by Léo Delibes | libretto by Edmond Gondinet and Philippe Gille

Director Roger Hodgman

Venue: Opera Theatre, Sydney Opera House
Dates: August 24, 27, 31; September 3, 9, 13, 17, 21, 2011
Bookings: www.opera-australia.org.au