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Figaro at the Royal Opera

The current revival of David McVicar / Tanya McCallin's production of Figaro delivered much lighthearted entertainment for the end of the current Royal Opera season. Ilderando D'Arcangelo's voice,  acting skills and dark hair Latin look really suited the Figaro role. Aleksandra Kurzak also made a wonderfully playful Susanna. Barbara Frittoli was just too matronly for the role (and that wide vibrato didn't help).

Charles Mackerras, an octagenarian, continued to inject energy into this tried-and-tested work. Tempi were varied enough to give the performance variety - and he clearly refused to let any of the soloists to wallow in it ... good for him!



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