(m)Orpheus. New Zealand Opera & Black Grace- Michelle Potter …on dancingThis extraordinary production, (m)Orpheus, by New Zealand Opera & Black Grace, is billed as a re-imagining of Christoph Gluck’s 18th century opera, Orfeo ed Euridice. The program note calls it a dance-opera collision—which it is, but it’s also a great deal more than that.
Indeed, the whole enterprise is a five-point star—visionary and innovative direction and choreography by Neil Ieremia, a totally stunning set and costume design by Tracy Grant-Lord, a skilful re-orchestration of Gluck’s original by composer Gareth Farr played by a chamber ensemble conducted by Marc Taddei, beautiful singing delivered by three fine soloists and a wonderful eight member Chorus, and inspired dancing by members of Black Grace contemporary dance company. They all melded into the spirit life of a production that could only have been realised in Pasifika-Aotearoa New Zealand.
Gareth Farr’s re-orchestration for small chamber orchestra is entirely appropriate, fitting both Ieremia’s interpretation and this venue well, while the APO is as accomplished as ever under Marc Taddei.
What could be wrought from the occasion both the Orpheus Choir and the brass-augmented Orchestra Wellington splendidly achieved under Marc Taddei’s incisive leadership!
Compelling programming, three superb soloists, a committed orchestra, and a dedicated conductor made this an outstanding concert.
Myth and Ritual was the title of Saturday night’s Orchestra Wellington concert, but it could equally have been Sense and Sensuality: vivid music played with intelligence and verve….
…it was matched so well by the musical colours Taddei shaped, everything contoured with a grim and grimy edge.