enthralledThe singers were topnotch, although I think tenor Stuart Skelton might have been nursing a bit of lurgy, there. Orla Boylan sounded fab as Senta, and I liked the young bass James Creswell a lot, as the Dutchman. He cut a fine, tortured-romantic figure too. Clive Bayley is still on a roll, I've admired his recent stints as the baddies in HOFFMANN, and as Bluebeard ; his Daland is excellent, too, a bit more likeable than usual (Wot an old git that character is, no wonder his daughter's loco.)
Afterwards, we had a quick lunch at the local Garfunkle's. (I'd actually never been in one). It was virtually deserted, which was fine by me, as I needed to chill out a bit after all that emotional frenzy. It was proper lunchtime, though, and it seemed odd that were were only about ten other people eating there. It's not exactly haute cuisine, but it's pleasant enough. clean, and cheapish for the area. Is this due to the recession?
Anyway, This production definitely rocked my boat, and I suggest that everyone who has a chance to check it out. IMO, DUTCHMAN is quite reasonable as a starter opera, too, although people are usually advised to begin with something more romcommy. I beg to differ, Once bad ol' nutter Wagner has you hooked, you're hooked proper.
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