Don Giovanni Review: Mozart's Predatory Tale Gets Dizzying Revival 2026

In this Don Giovanni review, Mozart and Da Ponte's tale of a predatory sex addict proves more pertinent than ever, thanks to a visually dizzying revival by Greg Eldridge. Post #MeToo and #TimesUp, the opera's themes of sexual conquest and abuse resonate with contemporary audiences, even as the production locates the action between 1850 and 1900.

A Visually Dizzying Interpretation

Kaspar Holten's 2014 staging, revived with care and clarity, transforms the overture into a visual as well as a musical tour de force. Luke Halls' video design starts small, scrawling a single woman's name on the grey stone facade. Soon, however, the trickle swells to a torrent as a catalogue of sexual conquests appears before our eyes. Projections are constant throughout, with scribbles, ink blots, and splashes of blood spattering scenery and singers alike. In the famous Champagne Aria, images of buildings, rooms, and staircases rotate at dizzying speed with the Don standing in the eye of the storm, anticipating his latest binge.

Remarkably, these projections rarely distract from the action, a testament to Bruno Poet's dextrous lighting design. Holten places an appropriately intense focus on the title character as he spirals out of control. At first, the upstairs rooms are haunted by a handful of ghostly exes. By the end, as the Don's grasp on reality recedes, they've become legion.

Key Takeaways

• Contemporary resonance: The #MeToo movement makes Don Giovanni's predatory behavior feel urgently relevant.
• Visual spectacle: Es Devlin's Escher-inspired revolving set and Luke Halls' projections create a dizzying experience.
• Inconsistent execution: Despite brilliant moments, the production can feel frustratingly uneven.
• Strong performances: The cast delivers powerful portrayals, particularly in the title role.

Production Elements and Their Impact

Anja Vang Kragh's semi-stylised costumes and Es Devlin's Escher-inspired revolving set locate the action somewhere between 1850 and 1900, but the contemporary resonances come over loud and clear. The set's constant motion mirrors the Don's chaotic life, while the projections add layers of meaning. However, the production's inconsistency is its Achilles' heel. Some scenes crackle with energy, while others fall flat, leaving the audience yearning for a more cohesive vision.

Performances and Direction

The cast delivers strong performances, with the title role commanding the stage. The Don's descent into madness is palpable, aided by the haunting presence of his past conquests. Greg Eldridge's revival direction maintains the clarity of Holten's original vision, though the inconsistency in pacing and focus remains a drawback. The orchestra, under the baton, brings Mozart's score to life with verve, though occasional lapses in coordination are noticeable.

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