If you’re going to see one opera this year, hurry to catch Seattle Opera’s “The Barber of Seville.”
This is a timeless comedy with soaring, gorgeous music played for laughs. The music is at once recognizable and captivating.
Gioachino Rossini
‘s “Barber” is the perfect opera for someone who says they don’t like opera or has never been to see a classical opera before. The action is nonstop, the storyline is easy to follow, and even people who say they couldn’t hum along with an opera melody will be singing the overture of the famous “factotum” sung by Figaro or the overture all the way home.
“Barber” isn’t just a standard among opera companies’ repertoires, it’s an icon in pop culture. Bugs Bunny chased Elmer Fudd in the famous “Rabbit of Seville” episode of Looney Tunes, and Tom and Jerry play their own mouse-and-cat cartoon version of a famous aria from the opera.
That’s part of what makes seeing the opera performed in the classical setting so fun. It has all the components of the high art — great music, terrific orchestra, soaring arias, fantastic costumes and sets — while being very accessible thanks to the way the cast plays up the jokes.
The opening night performance proved that the company hired first-class singers for the “gold” cast whose spectacular voices make easy work of the roller-coaster arias. Argentinian Jose Carbo made his American debut as Figaro, filling the role with great control of his voice and delightful comic acting skills.
Patrick Carfizzi is a hilarious Dr. Bartolo. Sarah Coburn’s beautiful soprano voice would melt any suitor’s heart.
Clearly the highlight of the cast, though, is tenor Lawrence Brownlee, as Count Almaviva.
The cast changes on various nights as the opera shuffles through its “gold” and “silver” casts. The lead roles in the silver cast have great reputations and I’ve heard they do a fine job.
The opera’s set is a three-decade-old revolving piece that adds to the action and comedy. It’s a bit worn but the music, acting and fabulous costumes make up for the slightly stale set. I loved the lighting, especially some treats at the end. There’s also a surprise piece of scenery that helps bring to life the joyous finale.
Massanet’s “Don Quixote” and Mozart’s “The Magic Flute” are fine operas to be sure. But if you want to laugh, then sit down in Figaro’s chair and get ready for a close shave by the famous “Barber of Seville.”
“The Barber of Seville”
Through Jan. 29 at McCaw Hall, 321 Mercer St., Seattle.
Tickets are $25 to $218. For more information or to buy tickets, go to www.seattleopera.org or call 800-426-1619.
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