an accessible and visually impressive production that brings Mozart’s classic opera to life
Opera North’s new production of The Marriage of Figaro brings Mozart’s well known opera into a setting that feels both familiar and refreshed. The original work was composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart with a libretto by Lorenzo Da Ponte and has remained popular for centuries thanks to its lively story and memorable score. This new staging keeps the heart of the opera intact while placing the action inside a modern country house. It feels like a thoughtful update that makes the piece approachable without losing what makes it such a classic.
Director Louisa Muller’s staging makes good use of the country house setting. The production moves at a steady pace and the staging allows the characters to move naturally through the space. The set design by Madeleine Boyd was particularly impressive. Each part of the house felt distinct and carefully considered. The boot room filled with coats and wellies immediately sets the tone, while later scenes reveal other areas of the house that feel just as detailed. The transitions between acts were smooth and the set never felt static. It gave the sense of a real household rather than just a theatrical backdrop.
One of the real stand out performances of the evening came from Hongni Wu as Cherubino. The character brings a burst of energy to the stage and Wu’s performance captures that restless personality perfectly. The role requires both strong vocal control and physical presence, and Wu delivers both. Cherubino’s appearances were some of the most engaging moments of the evening and the audience response reflected that.
The music is led by conductor Valentina Peleggi with the Orchestra of Opera North performing live. Even as someone new to opera it was easy to appreciate the richness of Mozart’s score. The orchestra carries the production forward and supports the singers without ever overpowering them. The balance between stage and orchestra felt carefully managed and allowed the music to remain the centre of the experience.
What stood out most was how welcoming the production felt for someone watching opera for the first time. The staging keeps things clear and the performances help guide the audience through the story. By the end it was easy to see why The Marriage of Figaro continues to be performed so widely. It is a lively production with strong performances and an impressive visual setting.
The Marriage of Figaro continues its Opera North tour following its performances at The Lowry, Salford Quays, with the run concluding at Hull New Theatre on 28 March.