Production photography by John Kilkeary

It was with much interest that I went to see the Australian premiere  production of MANSFIELD PARK, a chamber opera adaptation of Jane Austen’s timeless novel. I am happy to report that it was wonderful! A really fun night!

The adaptation by Jonathon Dove with libretto by Alasdair Middleton sticks closely to the original story by Jane Austen, but suppresses some side plots with Tom the older brother etc. The only issue I had with the selected parts was that one of the love interests (Mr Yates) is mentioned but never seen, even though he plays a key part at the end. However, this did not detract from my enjoyment of the performance.

The style of opera was in the modern English style established by Benjamin Britten. The music was well integrated into the story with some wonderful ensemble singing throughout the piece. The action did not flag and the audience was glued to its seats throughout! I particularly liked the scene where they all sing of the wonders of Southerton!

Keiran Brandt-Sawdy did a great job of conducting and the piano duet accompaniment was excellent, but could have been softer in parts so as not to overwhelm the singers, especially at the beginning.

The staging was well managed, particularly given the limitations of the theatre, which requires a real ‘chamber opera’ approach.

I was particularly impressed with how the composer, Jonathon Dove, used the different voices to convey the character of the protagonists. A case in point was Miss Crawford’s tendency to break into ‘look at me’ style singing even when off stage!

All of the young singers were in good voice, despite occasional wobbliness from Spencer Darby as Mr Rushworth.

Operantics’ brief season of MANSFIELD PARK took place between the 20th and 24th April.

This is the second opera from this group of young singers which I have attended and really enjoyed. I look forward to their next performance on 29 September of La Sonnambula. A challenge indeed!