Lucrezia Borgia

This superb production has a limited season in Melbourne and is a stunning example of a more contemporary approach to performing opera. The controversial narratives surrounding the figure of Lucrezia Borgia are distilled in this text to produce a very moving and dramatic story. 

The ruthless nature of Lucrezia created a legacy where the name Borgia instilled fear and disgust, however, Donizetti creates a complex character who is also capable of exhibiting genuine tenderness. This contrast is beautifully and skilfully managed by soprano, Helena Dix, as Lucrezia Borgia. The exquisite tone and power of her voice and her fine acting skills combine to convey the extraordinary conflicting emotions her character experiences.

Dix is supported by a range of highly accomplished performers and artists who capture both the serious and absurd nature of the characters and events. Tenor, James Egglestone, as Gennaro and Baritone, Christopher Hillier, as Don Alfonso capture the tragic nature of their actions and the strange circumstances of their story. Their performances beautifully highlight the pain and anguish of their relationship to the Borgia name. Mezzo-Soprano, Dimity Shepherd, is also wonderful as Maffio Orsini.

The set and costume design of this production is particularly daring and imaginative and contextualises the mood of this opera perfectly. The mafiosos are depicted along the lines of contemporary Neapolitan gangster culture and this allows the costumes to have a striking garish appearance that is echoed and magnified in the set design. The combination is ingenious as it also exudes opulence and grandeur. This creates a great backdrop for the exceptional performances of both the cast and the orchestra.

Despite the somewhat dark nature of the story, the lightness of Donizetti’s music is accentuated in this production and produces sheer pleasure. At times the orchestra’s exuberance seems to compete with the vocals of the performers but there is synergy and balance between them that is also palpable. Although the Athenaeum has great charm, it seems a pity that such a lively and exceptional performance could not be housed in a more upgraded venue.

Patricia Di Risio

Photographer: Robin Halls.