The Oberon review of Carl Maria von Weber's final opera reveals a fantastical, nonsensical romp that charms but doesn't quite convince. Premiered at the Proms 200 years after its Covent Garden debut, this semi-staging by Mark Elder and the Orchestre Révolutionnaire et Romantique tackled the work's impossible plot with new narration by Timothy Knapman.
Weber's Oberon: A Plot of Pirates, Princesses, and Fairies
The opera's story follows a French knight and his Arabian beloved through magical trials set by fairy king Oberon to win a bet with Titania. Weber threw everything into this final work—pirates, princesses, mermaids, and a magic horn—creating a patchwork of styles that ranges from Mozartian fairy music to Wagnerian brass pageantry.
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This Proms performance replaced the original lumpen dialogue with Knapman's arch rhyming couplets and pop-culture references, delivered with wit by Tamsin Greig. While often funny, the narration felt excessive, even with Greig's engaging presence.
Orchestral Performance and Period Instrument Debate
Elder's passion for the score shone through in crisp attacks and deliberate shading. The period band delivered silver-footed fairy music and broad brass sallies, but in a venue this size, a contemporary symphony orchestra might have offered greater punch and brilliance. The score's charm sometimes veered dangerously close to Gilbert and Sullivan, especially as tuning soured in the heat.
Choir and Staging Highlights
The Monteverdi Choir excelled, dispatching choruses with subtlety and style under Emma Doherty's light-touch direction. Their acting added depth to the semi-staged production, making the most of limited theatrical elements.
| Aspect | Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|
| Orchestra | Crisp attack, deliberate shading | Period instruments lacked punch in large venue |
| Narration | Funny, knowing references | Too much, even with Greig |
| Choir | Subtle, stylish, well-acted | None noted |
| Overall Coherence | Charming, vivacious score | Plot remains nonsensical, near-G&S at times |
Key Takeaways from the Oberon Review
- Weber's final opera is a fantastical mix that struggles with its own plot.
- Mark Elder's passion is evident, but period instruments may not suit huge venues.
- The Monteverdi Choir delivers standout performances.
- New narration adds humor but overwhelms the drama.
- Despite charm, the work doesn't fully convince as grand opera.
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