Revival of a 2016 Production
A revival of Johannes Erath's production of Verdi's Un ballo in maschera has been restaged over multiple seasons. Originally created in 2016, the production is known for its elaborate and visually striking design elements.Unique Set Design
The production features a set that blends art-deco and art-nouveau styles from the 1920s-1930s. This includes a central marital bed with a mirrored double on the ceiling, where Riccardo's corpse appears in the second act, adding to the dramatic effect.Symbolic and Theatrical Elements
Notable elements include a blind judge, Ulrica, who symbolizes Death, and Oscar's striptease in the final act, revealing a young woman. Riccardo ascends to heaven via a grand staircase with Ulrica, while his double suffers on stage, creating a visual contrast.Staging and Libretto Discrepancy
While the visual elements are intense, they do not form a coherent whole. The set's uniqueness also highlights its limitations. The staging choices might surprise the original libretto's author, Eugène Scribe, who emphasized a logical narrative progression.Acting and Direction
The acting direction is described as fine and precise, with the show being enjoyable to watch. The first act features choruses singing around the king's bed, while the second act centers on Ulrica's scene in the same location.Piotr Beczała's Performance
Piotr Beczała, celebrating his sixtieth birthday in December, delivers a fresh and luminous performance as Riccardo. His voice has a powerful projection and a splendid high C, maintaining a lyrical quality similar to Pavarotti.Supporting Cast Highlights
Anna Pirozzi is a solid Amelia but lacks sensuality, while Yulia Matochkina is magnificent as Ulrica, with a rich and powerful voice. Erika Baikoff has strong stage presence but a thinner vocal range. Zhe Liu is ideal as Silvano, and the supporting cast is praised for their performances.Conducting and Orchestration
Marco Armiliato conducts with expertise, bringing out surprising orchestral details in Verdi's score. The orchestra is described as impeccable, with the choruses well-prepared but less audible in the second act.
