OPERA

Canberra Opera Workshop

“The Magic Flute”

Lyneham High School, to July 22

Reviewed by Clinton White

MOZART’S “The Magic Flute” is a reasonable choice for an amateur opera company. It rollicks along, not taking itself too seriously.

The program notes describe as “treacherous” the Queen of the Night’s aria, “The Wrath of Hell is Burning in My Bosom”, however Stephanie McAlister comfortably got to those high F-naturals.

Tenor David Smith (Tamino) was strong and true, and Leon Kavcic (Monostatos) was mischievous.

In true tradition of the show going on regardless, the should-be-bed-ridden Chris McNee gave a lively and humorous performance of Papageno. Unable to sing, he mimed the words while Gerard Atkinson, who also played Sarastro, sang Papageno from the orchestra pit.

Atkinson immersed himself in the part of Papageno and gave it great character. He was less assured on stage as Sarastro.

The orchestra, under conductor Jennifer Groom, put in a good effort, with flautist David Smith playing his all-important role beautifully.

But, overall, this performance of “Die Zauberflöte” (in English) was stiff and wooden, made worse by performers repeatedly bumping their heads on a low-hanging, decorative light lurking in the otherwise effective set.

The lighting was especially disappointing. At times half the audience was bathed in bright light, with half the cast in shadow, pools of light devoid of actors, or a stage full of actors in darkness.

In the end, this production of “The Magic Flute” was enjoyable enough but not quite ready for a public performance.