All those who didn’t come to (Un)Lucky in Love? A Night At The Opera, presented by Acting Up In Rye last Friday [February 13], missed a very special evening of wonderful food and music. For “hors d’oeuvres”, accompanied by champagne, there was a group of predominantly Bizet songs and a superb performance of “Abendstern” from Wagner’s Tannhauser by Adrian Powter, making a welcome return to Rye. The set culminated with a dramatic rendition of the famous “Pearl Fishers Duet”, when Powter was joined by tenor Richard Roberts, who is currently performing with the English National Opera.
The audience then feasted on generous servings of delicious chicken and chorizo casserole which, judging by the offers of seconds being accepted, was thoroughly enjoyed.
Then came the Italian section. The singers seemed to relish performing in this language. Beautiful nuances of lyrics and musical interpretation flowed warmly from them all. The tour de force was Mozart’s “Soave Sia il Vento” from Cosi Fan Tutte. The trio of Sally Harrison, Anna Harvey and Powter moulded together to produce a truly exquisite interpretation. This was followed by a mouth-watering tiramisu and cream. Sarah Givertz, you worked wonders in that kitchen.
The finale came while nibbling on the Viennese biscuits that accompanied coffee. The eclectic choice of songs demonstrated each singer’s strengths most successfully. Harvey delighted all with her performance of Walton’s “The Bear”. The wonderfully romantic “Serenade” from The Student Prince sung by Roberts and then Harrison’s dramatic presentation of “It’s My Wedding” from Jonathan Dove’s The Enchanted Pig, almost stole the show.
But the brilliant climax came as a truly glorious performance of Verdi’s quartet “Bella Figlia dell’Amore”. This difficult piece was sung with beautiful musicality. Each singer listened to the others and together produced the most exquisitely performed number of the evening. Stunning.
This was a really special night held together by compere Alexander Hunt and accompanist David Eaton, who was also musical director. Thank you Acting Up In Rye for giving the town such a treat.
Photo: Ray Prewer