
By Márcio Bezerra
Palm Beach Opera launched its 63th season with a solid production of Charles Gounod’s perennial favorite Roméo et Juliette.
Featuring a handsome set by Opera Utah and dazzling costumes from Opéra de Montreal, the well-attended opening night had all the right ingredients for a satisfying experience, from both dramatic and musical points of view.
Indeed, under the direction of Tara Faircloth, Palm Beach Opera delivered one of its better-acted performances in seasons. As in major opera houses, principals and chorus members were sharply focused on delivering a convincing dramatic experience, instead of just reciting the vocal lines straight to the audience.
And they could do that thanks to the excellent cast assembled for the production. From the chorus, to support roles to the principals, there was a consistency in the quality of singing that was truly remarkable.
As Juliette, soprano Kathryn Lewek displayed a most beautiful tone, especially when singing pianissimo passages. Her “Ah, je veux vivre” was less ebullient than usual, but she grew vocally and dramatically as the opera progressed, delivering a thrilling “Amour, ranime mon courage” (potion aria) and a remarkable love duet “Va, je t’ai pardonné” alongside the Roméo of tenor Long Long.
The latter’s potent instrument filled the house, remarkably delivering arias such as the famous “Ah! lève-toi, soleil.” Although his voice sometimes lacked in variety of colors, he monopolized the stage thanks to his perfect diction and acting skills.
Secondary roles were equally cast with high-quality performers. Palm Beach Opera Young Artist Randy Ho sang Tybalt’s role with a solid technique and clear diction. Another highlight was Ashlyn Brown in the “trouser role” of Stéphano. Dylan Gregg, also from the Young Artist program, was a sonorous Duke of Verona. Lastly, the veterans Alfred Walker and Lauren Decker shone in the roles of Frère Laurent and Gertrude, respectively.
Under the reliable direction of Greg Ritchey, Palm Beach Opera Chorus fulfilled its important part with remarkable sense of ensemble and excellent diction. Impressively, each member of the chorus moved on the stage as an individual, adding to the verisimilitude of the production.
Despite some less-than-perfect playing in the overture, the Palm Beach Opera Orchestra, under the direction of Music Director David Stern, did a fine job of supporting the singers without ever overpowering them.
Stern, who has been the company’s chief conductor for the past 10 years, recently became the official music director of the company (thanks to the support of Ari Rifkin); he is the first conductor to hold the title since the departure of Bruno Aprea in 2012. It is hoped that in this new position he will have more saying in scheduling rehearsals, hiring more musicians, and that he will take the already fine orchestral playing of our only true local ensemble to new heights.
Roméo et Juliette can be seen this afternoon at 2 p.m. at the Kravis Center in its final performance. Call 561-832-7469 or visit kravis.org for tickets.