The Princess and the Showgirl (Adriana Lecouvreur)

freeze frame opera’s latest short season is a delightful production of the rarely seen The Princess and the Showgirl, a beautifully performed, highly accessible rendition of this interesting “backstage” opera.

Based on real life events, The Princess and the Showgirl is the story of the rivalry between actress Adriana Lecouvreur and influential socialite Mrs Prince (known as the Princess) who are both in love with the same man, the dashing soldier-come-politician Maurizio.

Director Penny Shaw chose to set this production in 1953 New York, a time and place where celebrity, high society and politics were closely linked. This gives designer Rhianna Walker the opportunity to create some gorgeous costumes, from ancient Roman in the play within the opera, through classic ‘50s looks, to beautiful evening gowns – The Princess’ Act Three dress being particularly stunning. Rhianna Walker also designed the effective multi-level set, where manual transition from scene to scene was well executed.

The performance is accompanied by a four-piece ensemble, sweetly dubbed Quattro Formaggi, which includes Perth’s most animated pianist, Tommaso Pollio, and a Fisamonica (piano accordion) played by Cathie Travers.

Performances are excellent throughout. Splendid rivalry between Hattie Marshall's extroverted diva, Adriana Lecouvreur, played with a lovely mix of confidence and self-doubt, and Nicole Youl’s self-assured and elegant Mrs Prince, every bit a society matron. Both have exquisite voices and sing this gorgeous score beautifully.

Rosario La Spina appears in his element as the lover Maurizio, Brett Peart is strong as ‘The Prince’, interesting in that he is both cuckold and philanderer, while Kohsei Gilkes is delightful as his assistant Mr. Abate, with a very nicely layered performance and wonderful facial expression.

In danger of stealing the show is Robert Hofman as theatre manager Mr. Michonnet, a strong comedian who also touches the audience’s heart with his beautiful subplot of unrequited love.

Excellent support from a small but extremely strong ensemble, who not only sing superbly, but create a realistic and credible group of individuals. Zoe Lancaster as the Dancer is also lovely.

Seeing this incarnation of this opera, it is hard to understand why this is not a more popular piece – a credit to the director and production team for its clarity and vision.  An enjoyable and very easy show to watch.

Kimberley Shaw