Our production of Così fan tutte opened in Auckland on 31 May to rave reviews. Here is some of the feedback we have received so far:
Reviews
A triumvirate of creative talent guiding four outstanding voices
Cosi Fan Tutte is an opera for our time
This is not to be missed
Hume’s direction is refreshingly uncomplicated, focusing on the emotional journeys of the principal characters, as they become more and more psychologically lost and untethered from one another through a series of estranging interactions.
A clever, beautifully balanced confection, both crisp and sweet.
A triumph not to be missed
– Stuff
Brechtian director Lindy Hume’s hanging lights add altitude to the four-metre high set, over which float ten orbs with a mind of their own, creamy bonbons that change colour and elevation to tune the visual mood.
Emma Pearson and Hanna Hipp made for a glorious pair of sisters, both vocally and dramatically
The plot, worthy of a Netflix romcom, unfolds through flimsy deceptions and disguises, emotional farewells and passionate wooing, all facilitated before us by a cleverly revolving set and imaginative fast-changing lighting design.
The cast for this production is superb, six great singers and actors in a splendidly balanced ensemble.
A wonderful performance last night. It truly was a feast for the senses
– Audience member
A thought-provoking Cosi fan tutte from NZ Opera
– Middle C
Directorial insight and superbly balanced singing delivered with confidence and relish
Mozart and Da Ponte’s masterpiece was strongly cast, the characters revelling in their buffo roles while also revealing human frailties.