"... the music and voices were perfectly complimented by the atmosphere" Chris Marshall

I had the opportunity to witness a wonderful contemporary production recently when the Welsh National Opera performed Puccini’s opera Tosca at the Mayflower Theatre in Southampton.

From the flirtatious first act setting the scene and building the passion with humour and intrigue our attention was captured.

The arrival of the political prisoner following his escape from prison added to the complexity of the situation and brought with it a level of danger.
Chief of Police, Baron Scarpia took us through a seductive second act where his intentions became clear and emotions were heightened bringing tension to breaking point.

Tosca’s retaliation and Scarpia’s demise was well choreographed and expertly conducted.

There was a short wait for act three but Cavaradossi’s lament was spectacular as the music and voices were perfectly complimented by the atmosphere. The pinnacle to a perfect evening. 

It just goes to prove that despite the current economic climate with cut backs everywhere, it is still possible to produce a first rate show that is a wonderful experience.

Thanks to the Welsh National Opera and Mayflower Theatre, please keep flying the banner for contemporary opera performances.

Discover more about the Welsh National opera here wno.org.uk

Book your next Mayflower Theatre show here