Opera Scotland

Gianni Schicchi 2018Edinburgh Studio Opera

Read more about the opera Gianni Schicchi

Gianni Schicchi might be thought a difficult opera for Edinburgh Studio Opera to attempt, comedy being notoriously tricky for young performers to bring off, but the ripples of laughter in the first night audience showed how just how well the work had been prepared.

This updated production was staged in appropriate modern dress, and sung in English. An engaging ensemble performance resulted, full of detail without being too 'busy'.

A fine performance was given by Johannes Moore, who conveyed the dominance of Schicchi (while wearing a vest). Kenneth Reid as Rinuccio and Serena Linley-Adams as Lauretta made a touching pair of lovers. The grasping relatives were all well characterised. Among the number of cameo roles Zorbey Turkalp as Marco caught the eye. The whole cast played their part in this highly satisfying performance, during which the humour was very effectively conveyed.

The audience of over a hundred included a number of opera 'newbies', who seemed to thoroughly enjoy the proceedings. The orchestra, almost thirty strong, had been well trained by William Conway and gave a fina account of the score.

Credit must go to the production team, especially director Robert Hersey and musical director William Conway for ensuring there was so much to enjoy.

Although a number of key figures are coming to the end of their time as students in Edinburgh, there are also some promising singers coming through. It is to be hoped ESO will be able to keep up the standards they have set, as their productions offer welcome variety on the operatic scene.

Join Edinburgh Studio Opera for the remaining performances of Puccini's comic masterpiece, Gianni Schicchi, as part of a double bill with Purcell's Dido and Aeneas.

Tickets for this double bill £15 (£12) Students £6.50