“Cinderella is back but not as we know it“
One of Gioachino Rossini’s most popular operas, La Cenerentola has been making a comeback in recent years. Director Julia Burbach has chosen to present an English version of the Italian opera, a translation presented by the English National Opera so genius it’s hard to believe it’s not the original language.
Rossini altered many key details from what is considered the original version written in 1697 by Charles Perrault, changing the iconic glass slipper into a bracelet, the evil stepmother into a stepfather and fairy godmother to the male Alidoro, a tutor of the prince. Burbach adds a silent female counterpart, the spirit of Cinderella’s mother, who dances alongside Alidoro, peeking around doorways and over balconies at her much-maligned daughter. She also adds a group of children dressed as adorable mice to assist Alidoro in his dealings, some of whom randomly transform into miniature versions of the family members for no discernible reason other than for the great amusement of the audience.
Recontextualising the 1810 story into present day London, the large ensemble are dressed in a curious array of modern-ish costumes, designed by Sussie Juhlin-Wallén. However, she triumphs in her creation of the chorus costumes, dressing them as Ramiro’s ancestors in a stunning array of crimson, adding extra humour with many chorus members dressed in voluptuous skirts and towering wigs.
Deepa Johnny is an exquisite Cinderella, with Isabelle Peters and Grace Durham bursting with talent as they play the hilariously vain and conceited step-sisters Tisbe and Clorinda. Aaron Godfrey-Mayes is a stunning Prince Don Ramiro and Simon Bailey an amusing and quick-tongued Don Magnifico.
Yi-Chen-Lin expertly conducts the Orchestra of English National Opera with vigour and elegance, although at times the performers struggle to keep up with the escalating music. Set by Herbert Murauer is both functional and unique, with two sets of elevator doors set within a grand mansion allowing for many exciting moments to keep the audience entertained during what is a very lengthy opera.
A thoroughly enjoyable presentation of a beloved romantic opera, English National Opera have created a production that is both accessible and visually exciting. A cohesive and talented ensemble made up of singers, dancers and children ensure this presentation is truly worthy of the esteemed Rossini name and a production not to be missed by any opera-lover.