Opera Scotland

Barbiere di Siviglia 2014Magnetic Opera

Read more about the opera Barber of Seville

Magnetic Opera made its fringe debut with a contemporary take on Rossini's much loved comedy. Performing in English, the young cast sang stylishly and produced some good ensemble work. They made generally fine sounds to Charles Curry's piano accompaniment. The conductor Calum Fraser kept the pace and spirit of the piece bubbling along.

The production was in modern dress; on the tiny stage there were no sets and only a few props including a stepladder and a table. The audience seats were angled, minimising the boxy feel of the Lauriston Hall. Directed by Thomas Henderson, the English translation was by turns fresh and earthy, and the young audience of almost a hundred (on 21 August) seemed to enjoy it.

During the overture, the singers, dressed in black,  mingled with the audience and clattered about in a distracting manner. Comedy was perhaps emphasised at the expense of the human relationships, and the action seemed rather too frantic at times.

The small stage was almost unused, and although the hall is good looking, the limited acoustic did the performers few favours.

Nevertheless, there was a lot to enjoy in this fringe show and the young singers are to be encouraged.

Magnetic Opera was founded earlier this year, and founder Calum Fraser says the success has been sufficient for them to return next year although of course it has not yet been decided what opera they are to bring. 

Tickets £10 (£6)  running time 2 hrs.