The village used in the 60s cult television series The Prisoner provides the backdrop to a classic operatic tale of romance and comic capers which visits Milford Haven’s Torch Theatre this week [7 February]. In contrast to the picturesque village of Portmeirion, which is likely to be sitting in a grey sea mist this February, Swansea City Opera Company’s quirky set is brimming with colour and frivolity - yet the iconic architecture has been beautifully reproduced in miniature and transporting us into the eccentricity of 1920s. Bursting with energy and colour, full of hilarity and wit, the musical score is packed with memorable tunes, most famously Una furtive lagrima, a favourite of tenors and the aria that catapulted the great Luciano Pavarotti to fame. A classic Italian romantic comedy, L’Elisir d’Amore (Elixir of Love) has been wittily translated into English and transported to this uniquely fantastical setting. Indeed, the delicious tale has travelled well to the Portofino inspired “Welsh Riviera” resort and has been populated with vibrant characters and a classic love triangle where a naïve young farmer falls madly in love with a flirtatious and sophisticated landowner. His love unrequited, in desperation, he gives all he has to a travelling ‘quack’ for a bottle of Love’s Magical Elixir in an attempt to woo her from her betrothed. Those planning romantic, Valentine gestures take note; the course of true love rarely runs smooth and hilarity and hi-jinks are bound to follow! Complimenting this visual spectacle, this highly acclaimed company give a sparkling musical performance and Fraser Goulding’s masterful orchestral arrangement is impressive. Frothy and delightful, this production, regularly listed in The Times ‘The Knowledge’ Top Five Operas, is a great pre-Valentine warm-up. Performed by Swansea City Opera, The Elixir of Love can be seen at the Torch Theatre on Saturday the 7th February. Tickets may be reserved by calling their Box Office on 01646 695267 or by visiting their website at www.torchtheatre.co.uk. |
| Torch Theatre Milford Haven web site: www.torchtheatre.co.uk |
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Wednesday, February 4, 2009 |
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