REVIEW: Union Avenue Opera Presents Lakmé

For my second foray into the world of opera the Union Avenue Opera provided me with the chance to see the Missouri premiere of Lakmé by composer Léo Delibes (with a libretto by Edmond Gondinet and Philippe Gille). In sharp contrast to the romantic frivolity of Die Lustige Witwe, Lakmé is a tragic tale of star-crossed love set in the late 19th century during the British occupation of India. This work is filled with colorful and exotic characters, and those qualities are reflected in the music as well.

Gérald is a British soldier who meets Lakmé while sketching her ornate jewelry near a hidden Brahmin temple. The pair immediately fall in love despite knowing that their differing backgrounds prevent such a thing. When Nilakantha, the high priest, returns and discovers that a British soldier has trespassed on their sacred soil he vows revenge. At a bazaar he implores Lakmé to sing, knowing full well that Gérald will reveal himself in the process. Of course he does, and ends up being stabbed by Nilakantha. The pair flee to a secret hideout where Lakmé nurses Gérald back to health. But their idyllic existence is interrupted by the appearance of fellow solider Frederic, who reminds Gérald of his duty. Once she assesses the situation, Lakmé chooses to die with honor by ingesting the leaf of the poisonous datura plant.

Patricia Johnson does strong work as Lakmé, and her coloratura soprano is perfectly suited to the material. Her version of "The Bell Song" during the second act is splendidly realized, but it's her pairing with Crystal Philippi as Mallika, on the familiar "Flower Song" that really sparkles. Roderick George displays a pleasing tenor as Gérald, but there were times, particularly early on, when he was overwhelmed by the orchestra, and his co-star. David Dillard is a powerful presence as Nilakantha, and his bass thunders as he vows and seeks his revenge. Nathan Wentworth is also good as Frederic, who encourages Gérald to return to his regiment.

Fine support is also provided by Jon Garrett, Linden Christ, Elise LaBarge, Debra Hillabrand, Tom Sitzler, Joshua Stanton and Phil Touchette.

Kostis Protopapas does an impeccable job conducting the orchestra for this tuneful and moving piece. Regular conductor Scott Schoonover moves over to handle the stage direction, and does solid work with a more formalized approach. Patrick Huber's changeable set conjures up the locale in colorful fashion, and it's nicely lit by Kimberly Klearman. Additionally, Felia Davenport's costumes neatly capture the feel of these competing cultures.

The Union Avenue Opera's splendid production of Lakmé continues through August 29, 2009 at the Union Avenue Church.

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