Life on the Moon

Gala Theatre, Durham

THIS was a hugely enjoyable romp by English Touring Opera produced by Cal McCrystal.

Haydn's work was first performed in 1777 for Prince Esterhazy and Goldini's text in English suited the Commedia del Arte style of production perfectly.

The company's motto is “opera that moves” and it certainly moved the audience to laughter. Set in a formal garden with a full moon in a star-filled sky, it had them laughing even before the overture. The Old Street Band, including a theorbo, was sprightly and elegant under Christopher Bucknall's direction.

The theme deals with the new science of astronomy along with deception, lust and misogyny.

The spoken prologue was delivered with exquisite comic timing by Ronan Busfield as the servant Cecco.

Andrew Slater relished the role of lewd and wealthy widower Buonafede, tricked into believing he has been transported to the moon where the women are submissive to his demands.

The charlatan astronomer, Ecclitio, wonderfully sung by Christopher Turner, has designs on his fortune and his daughter, Clarice. played by Jane Harrington in very fine voice in the intricate coloratura. Martha Jones sang the part of the maid Lisetta with élan.

Entirely politically incorrect by today’s norms, nevertheless fools, lust and falsehoods still operate and “men can prove anything they want” applies now as in the 18th century.

The night sky was transformed into a beautiful sunset as the deception developed, with touches of farce as statues toppled. A delicate quartet to a rippling accompaniment ended the first act.

Action then moves to a fake moonscape inhabited by creatures dressed in white with weird, sparkling elaborate head-dresses.

There are echoes of Haydn's Creation in the aria Life on the Moon. The music in the second act is more affecting and complex, reflecting the deepening deception, before the lyrical and beautiful finale, comets whizzing across the sky.

Sue Shaw