Magic Flute is a whimsical gift
Main stage opera, like Christmas, comes but once a year to Saskatoon.
The Magic Flute is Saskatoon Opera’s latest offering. It is a thoughtful, high-quality and whimsical gift to audiences — even as it comes in curious wrapping.
Director Rob Herriot took a chance in taking this well-loved opera and using it to make a statement about the “lure of technology.” The hero, Tamino, is captured while working at his workplace computer terminal. Characters tweet and make reference to technology throughout the work.
The upside of this modern-day approach is how relatable it is to audiences. Accessibility was clearly important to those shaping the production — although the singing is in German, the spoken lines are in English.
This is the last opera Mozart created before his death, so he never knew how popular it became in the months and years that followed. There is a reason it was embraced and has endured. The whimsy and fantasy is also infused with symbolism that takes the audience to consider important life themes: the importance of wisdom, perseverance, companionship and love.
The story, music and tradition of this opera are honoured with engaging performances.
When it comes to The Magic Flute, the first piece of music that comes to mind is the Queen of the Night’s aria. Impressive but tough, it contains an imposing high F6 — a note rarely seen in the operatic repertoire. Ambur Braid nailed those notes and the rest of her challenging role in the standout performance of the evening.
showed vocal prowess and stage presence far above their years as they acted as spirit guides to Papageno and Papagena.
The biggest laughs of the night came for Jonathan MacArthur as Pamina’s jailer. Dancing light-footed across the boards, he was deliciously sneaky — you could’t wait to see him walk back on stage.
The set was also impressive — a series of walkways and stages made of cables and wires. There was an almost futuristic beauty about it and it did a good job of keeping the technological theme present in the minds of those watching.
There were times that the attempt to include cellphones and other modern touches seem forced and almost distracting. The costuming was uneven. Hipster chic, business wear and ’80s music videos (think Robert Palmer) all seemed to be inspirations. The modern dress did not go with either the space age set or the whimsical, magical plot line.
A few too many pairs of skinny jeans should not, however, chase anyone away. This production is a clear win for Opera Saskatoon. The confidence shown in using a modern setting and a unique interpretation of The Magic Flute should be applauded. The musical performances, which forms the heart of the production, are worth waiting all year to hear.
The Magic Flute will be at Persephone Theatre on June 17 and 19 at 7:30 p.m. and June 21 at 5 p.m.