If you are after something that is mighty special, you shouldn’t go past Melbourne Opera’s stunning rendition of La Bohème. It is simply sensational. The story. The music. The voices. The realisation. It is so lively and emotional. It is cheeky and sexy and fraught. Giacomo Puccini composed the opera in four acts between 1893 and 1895 to a libretto by Luigi Illica and Guiseppe Giacosa. Not for naught is it regarded as one of the most popular operas ever written.
It is the story of a turbulent love affair between young poet Rodolfo and seamstress Mimi. Theirs is a tragic romance. Rodolfo shares a bitterly cold apartment with painter Marcello. They are joined by friends, Colline, a philosopher and Schaunard, a musician. Rodolfo is visited by neighbour Mimi and it is love at first sight. All gather for much revelry at the Café Momus. It is where we are also introduced to the larger-than-life persona of free-spirited singer Musetta, Marcello’s on/off lover. Although Rodolfo cares deeply for Mimi, he is a jealous man. For her part, Mimi is impoverished and sickly … and she is getting progressively worse, with the end drawing near.
The talent on show in Melbourne Opera’s third production of La Bohème (the others staged in 2008 and 2012) is breathtaking. The score remains enchanting. Soprano Elena Xanthoudakis is ethereal and intoxicating as Mimi. Tenor Boyd Owen is torn and troubled as Rodolfo. Buoyant and jovial best describes a super performance from Soprano Helena Dix as Musetta. Baritone Christopher Tonkin adds a great deal of heft as Marcello. Darcy Carroll as Colline and Stephen Smith as Schaunard deliver spark. I greatly appreciated what baritone John Bolton-Wood brought to bear in his dual characterisations. He plays Benoit, the lads’ over refreshed landlord, and Alcindoro, an old, pompous and wealthy councillor who escorts Musetta to the café.
The Melbourne Opera Chorus and Orchestra conducted by Raymond Lawrence are in fine form, the second act in particular enabling them to showcase their repertoire. Jacob Battista and Sophie Woodward elevate the spectacle with their creative two tier set design. Paris appears to have been transported to Melbourne as the familiar Skipping Girl sign is prominent in the background. Harriet Oxley enhances the production with her lavish costuming, while Niklas Pajanti provides depth through his lighting design. Director Gary Abrahams ensures that passion abounds in this triumphant and melodic Melbourne Opera offering.
What a way to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Puccini’s passing. Bravo! La Bohème is on at Athenaeum Theatre until 24th September, 2024.
Alex First
Other reviews you might enjoy:
- La Boheme (Opera Australia) – theatre review
- Lucrezia Borgia (Melbourne Opera) – theatre review
- The Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagonny (iOpera & Melbourne Opera) – opera review
Alex First is a Melbourne based journalist and communications specialist. He contributes to The Blurb on film and theatre.