BWW Reviews: MOZART's THE MAGIC FLUTE: IMPEMPE YOMLINGO at the New Victory Theater supplies charm and creativity but lacks true resonance

The South African Isango Ensemble's production of "The Magic Flute," strips away some of the glossy sheen of Mozart's master work, leaving a show that is more down to earth and yet still revels in the joy of the composer's music. Under Mark Dornford-May's direction, this "Magic Flute" transports the show to an African township, showcasing a transposed score for African instruments and encompassing various African dialects (as well as English - the primary language used in the show).

The production aesthetic for "The Magic Flute" is minimalist - the set consists of sparse wooden boards flanked by instruments on either side. The costumes are much more vibrant and they largely represent African township attire. While that remains the primary look for the production, the costumes also incorporate, at various points, 1960s flared jeans and Afros, plush Care Bears, and angel wings. These costume elements add comedic flair to the production yet seem incongruous with the show's dominant aesthetic.

Above all, for this "Magic Flute," the retooled score clearly takes center stage. In many ways, that too feels minimalist. While the absence of strings and the incorporation of African percussion and other instruments allow the singing to become the focus, I feel that I missed some of the grandeur embedded in Mozart's compositions. The singing in this "Magic Flute" feels strong for the most part. In particular, Pauline Malefane is radiant as the Queen of the Night; she hits her role's crystalline high notes with ease. As the young Pamina, Zolina Ngejane has an equally lovely voice. As central character Tamino's comic sidekick, Zamile Gantana commands the stage with his booming voice and larger-than-life presence. Mhlekazi (Whawha) Mosiea makes for a winsome hero as Tamino but does not have the strongest vocals among the cast. Ayanda Eleki's Sarastro also left more to be desired; while he is a fine singer, I was wishing for him to have a bigger, more resonant voice to counteract the Queen of the Night's piercing high notes.

Isango Ensemble's "The Magic Flute" capably gives the opera a new sound yet the show's new setting did not make for a dramatically different effect on the whole. While the music in this "Magic Flute" exudes joy and charm, the show does not strike a deeply emotional chord.

Photo by Keith Pattison

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