Don Pasquale

Published Tuesday 1 May 2007 at 11:25 by Natalie Anglesey

Back to basics is the order of the day and to celebrate the opening of its season, this award-winning company, under the expert guidance of director Geoffrey Saunders, presents an elegant, though minimalist, production of Donizetti’s popular opera.

In the lush rural setting of the Cheshire countryside, the set in the converted Clonter Farm barn suggests an elegant interior and garden of a wealthy home, which is bathed in golden summer sunshine.

There is no orchestra, simply a piano on stage, beautifully played by Musical Director, Robin Humphreys, occasionally accompanied by impromptu bird-song, much to the delight of the audience. Somehow the sound of the solo piano and the clarity of the voices help to point up the music and the libretto.

Heading an international cast is Greek George Matheakakis, who is a real find. His rich baritone is ideal for the Don. In his early 30s, he adroitly avoids any caricature of the sprightly 70-year-old and plays him as a distinguished gentleman hungry for love as well as money. Brazilian Mario Solemene, is also good as the manipulative Dr Malatesta who eventually, resolves everything in the end.

Andrew Mackenzie-Wicks sings Ernesto whilst Ella Kirkpatrick as Norino shows some nice comic touches and her voice improvs in the second half.

This delightfully fresh production is a promising start to the season and will also be performed in the newly refurbished St George’s Concert Room in Liverpool.