Die Fledermaus Review: Strauss Opera Lacks Fizz but Has Charm 2026

Die Fledermaus review: Johann Strauss's beloved operetta sparkles with wit, yet Opera Holland Park's new production takes time to find its fizz. This staging, directed by Liam Steel, blends Viennese charm with 1920s London flair, offering a fresh take on a classic.

Die Fledermaus Review: A Stylish but Slow-Burning Production

The production uses the Metropolitan Opera's 2013 English version, with lyrics by Jeremy Sams and a book by Douglas Carter Beane. Set on New Year's Eve 1929 in London, it references the Sitwells and Mitfords, adding a louche Noël Coward feel. The idea has legs, turning bourgeois infidelity into a tart farce, but the execution takes time to ignite.

Neil Irish's set for the Eisensteins' salon feels underwhelmingly modest, though it allows intimate contact with the audience. The second act's deco ballroom has more flourish, but the company appears distant. It's the third act, set in a police station, that finally raises the chuckle level, thanks to Robert Burt's winning bobby.

Performance Highlights and Musical Delights

Jeremy Sams' lyrics are a treat, with lines like “Drink another drink with me, you’ve had none and I’ve had three,” sung by Xavier Hetherington's stentorian Alfred. Rebecca Bottone shines as the put-upon Rosalinde, bringing vocal agility and comic timing. However, acting can be inconsistent, with act one starting off a bit stilted.

Despite the slow start, the production boasts strong performances and clever physical comedy. The orchestra, under the baton of [conductor], delivers Strauss's waltzes with verve, reminding us why this operetta remains a favorite.

Comparison Table: Die Fledermaus Productions

Key Takeaways from This Die Fledermaus Review

• Liam Steel's direction offers clever physical comedy and a fresh setting.
• Jeremy Sams' lyrics are witty and elegant, enhancing the dialogue.
• The production takes until act three to fully sparkle, but delivers strong performances.
• Neil Irish's sets are mixed, with the ballroom being more impressive than the salon.
• Rebecca Bottone and Robert Burt stand out in their roles.

FAQ

In conclusion, this Die Fledermaus review finds a production with intellectual wit and late-blooming charm. While it may not be the most effervescent staging, it offers a delightful evening for opera lovers seeking a fresh perspective on Strauss's classic. Book your tickets now to experience this frothy tale.