Final production of entertaining opera (From Western Telegraph)

Final production of entertaining opera

The Marriage Of Figaro Lampeter House, Near Narberth August 2nd

Mozart's The Marriage Of Figaro is the perfect popular opera, combining sensitivity and superlative musical construction with a common touch. Certainly, the 400 capacity crowd at Lampeter House, near Narberth, must have left this exotic venue in a state of euphoria, having witnessed Opera Box's spectacular 50th and final production of this entertaining comedy.

The setting for this open-air event was Julian Williams' home and magical garden. The well-known overture opened dramatically, with the orchestra majestically in situ on a balcony above the action. The first two acts were played out against the dappled light of the evening summer sun, as the company squeezed every ounce of fun from the libretto.

For me, the musical highlights of the performance were Aris Naderian as Figaro with the aria Say Goodbye Now, and Jessica Schlenther's Cherubino's aria Tell Me Fair Ladies, and of course the second act's finale ensemble piece that highlights Mozart's genius.

The night had drawn in sufficiently to reflect the darkening atmosphere of the third and fourth acts, with their complex plots of deception and intrigue, played out with flashes of comic light, until the climactic reconciliation.

This was an enjoyable evening and the perfect setting for a rare musical treat; a jewel in Pembrokeshire's cultural crown.