Handel's Amadigi di Gaula review reveals a dazzling fusion of baroque opera and reality TV, as director Olivia Fuchs transplants the composer's magic opera into a Love Island-style setting at Buxton Festival. With inflatable flamingos, appoggiaturas, and a cast of four, this production reimagines sorcery as producer trickery, creating a hilarious yet moving theatrical experience.
A Love Island Makeover for Handel's Opera
Fuchs swaps Handel's magic for television manipulation, turning the four-hander into a dating show parody. The result is a staging that keeps audiences smiling while exploring toxic relationship dynamics. Hilary Cronin as Melissa delivers power-suited villainy with hip-wiggles and eyebrow-raises, shaping every note of Handel's coloratura with mischief.
Cast Chemistry and Musical Brilliance
Sopranos Hilary Cronin and Rowan Pierce, alongside countertenors James Hall and Tim Morgan, create palpable chemistry. The English Concert, led by Erin Helyard, provides propulsive baroque dynamism, with emotive obbligato moments for oboe and bassoon. Despite the lack of lower voices, the cast distracts with sheer talent.
Key Production Highlights
- Inflatable flamingo and barrage of cameras create a Love Island aesthetic
- Video trickery replaces deceptive illusions
- Trial-by-fire becomes a gameshow challenge
- Final act tortures use hair-straighteners and eyelash-curlers
Comparison: Traditional vs. Fuchs' Amadigi
| Aspect | Traditional Staging | Fuchs' Production |
|---|---|---|
| Setting | Magic castle | Reality TV villa |
| Sorcery | Spells and potions | Producer manipulation |
| Lovers | Mythological figures | Love Island contestants |
| Emotional tone | Serious drama | Comedy with heart |
FAQ
What is Amadigi di Gaula about?
Handel's Amadigi di Gaula is a baroque opera about love, jealousy, and magic, originally set in a mythical world. Fuchs' production reimagines it as a reality TV dating show.
Where is this production playing?
The production premiered at the Buxton Festival in the UK, known for innovative opera and music programming.
Who stars in Amadigi di Gaula at Buxton?
The cast features sopranos Hilary Cronin and Rowan Pierce, and countertenors James Hall and Tim Morgan, with the English Concert orchestra.
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