Give Now  »

There's Magic In The Flute

bird catcher

Mozart's The Magic Flute at IU's Musical Arts Center is a lot of fun.

The resolute Prince Tamino and his anything but resolute side kick, the bird catcher Papageno, are saved from a dragon by a trio of spear wielding ladies. Accompanied by another trio of ladies they go through a complex of portentously presented Masonic inspired rituals to prepare themselves to save the Princess Pamina. Along the way they encounter a nasty named Monostatos and the Princess's own scary mother, the Queen of the Night.

Saturday evening's Tamino, tenor Trey Smagur, was a standout, nicely partnering the lyric power of Yuji Bae as Pamina. Ryan Kieran sang well and was very funny and personable as the bird catcher Papageno. Rafael Porto had personal gravity as Sarastro, the leader of the temple, but could only suggest the role's low notes.

Connor Hakes made a very athletic figure as the villainous Monostatos. Emma Donohue was the evening's Queen of the Night in a staging that reduced the impact of her high C laden aria.

C. David Higgins's flexible set and the costumes are once again at the service of the drama. His deftly handled puppet array includes the dragon, lots of distinctive birds and a whole forest of varied and lovable Sanimals. The dialog is in English which helps with the comedy. Supertitles are used throughout Stage direction is by Helena Binder and the many effects are ably supported by Marie Barrett's lighting design.

The very enjoyable performance Saturday evening,  led by David Effron was a bit on the slow side, but it smoothly presented the music and supported the singers.

The IU Opera Theater's production of Mozart's The Magic Flute has performances April 17 and 18. Arthur Fagen takes over as conductor for this final weekend.

At the theatre for you, I'm George Walker.

Support For Indiana Public Media Comes From