Chester Cathedral is many things to many people: a vibrant community of worship, an ancient abbey, an archaeological treasure, a cultural hub, a centre of musical excellence and a unique blend of medieval and modern history. Flat Pack Music’s gala concert, A Night at the Opera, added another layer as we were taken through twenty-three operatic classics that gave everyone taking part the opportunity to shine: whether this was your first experience of opera or you’re a more seasoned pro, this production was an absolute treat.
Featuring L’orchestra dell’Arte and joined by Mersey Wave Choir and the Runcorn Community Chorus this spectacular candle-lit evening served up five professional soloists: soprano Heather Buckmaster; tenor Joseph Buckmaster; baritone Matthew Durkan; mezzo-soprano Imogen Garner; and soprano Sarah Helsby-Hughes.
The Carmen Overture sets the stage for Bizet’s fiery opera, and full of energy and excitement, was the perfect opener for proceedings, compered by Nick Fry.
As well as providing support throughout the evening, our two choruses combined wonderfully under their shared principal MD Jason Ellis, to deliver the moving Hebrew Chorus from Verdi’s Nabucco in the opening half before a rousing Anvil Chorus from Verdi’s Il Trovatore followed The Brindisi from Verdi’s La Traviata – with audience participation welcomed – to open up the second half.
Such a varied repertoire presents a real challenge to any orchestra yet under the direction of maestro Edward Peak, they moved seamlessly between genres, and whilst providing the perfect accompaniment to the soloists throughout the evening, they were able to delight in equal turn, with their resounding Triumphal March from Verdi’s Aida to close proceedings an absolute triumph in every sense, with every section having the opportunity to flourish.
Helsby-Hughes’ soaring soprano sent tingles up and down my spine with her beautiful and moving renditions of O mio babbino caro from Puccini’s Gianni Schicchi and Un bel di vedremo from Puccini’s Madama Butterfly, before her rich emotional performance of Vissi d’arte from Puccini’s Tosca.
Garner’s knowing Habanera from Bizet’s Carmen was full of expression and an absolute joy to behold whilst her Voi de sapete from Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro, full of adolescent love, was richly delivered, before harmonising later with Helsby-Hughes to deliver Delibes’ Flower Song.
H Buckmaster’s delicate rendition of Caro nome from Verdi’s Rigoletto caught the innocence and joy of first love, a mood similarly expressed in her performance of Je vous vivre from Gounod’s Roméo et Juliette which rightfully showcased her vocal range.
Durkan brought the necessary swagger to Bizet’s Toreador Song and really came into his own with Largo al factotum from Rossini’s Barber of Seville with his repetition of ‘Figaro’ capturing that iconic operatic moment perfectly.
His charming duet La ci darem la mano with H Buckmaster from Mozart’s Don Giovanni saw his seductive technique overpower her innocence, although later pairing with J Buckmaster, they could only reflect on their love for the same woman with Bizet’s Au fond du temple saint.
J Buckmaster brought confidence to La donne è mobile from Verdi’s Rigoletto with his lively and light-hearted melodies whilst in contrast, he sensitively captured the anguish of the tragic E lucevan le stelle from Puccini’s Tosca. Delightfully, he paired up with H Buckmaster and they beautifully embodied the passion of O soave fanciulla, one of the highlights of Puccini’s La Bohème.
An encore saw J Buckmaster’s powerful Nessun Dorma from Puccini’s Turandot close the proceedings as he was joined by the other soloists in conjunction with the orchestra and combined chorus: truly a night to remember.
A special mention for stage manager Mark Rawlinson who tirelessly supported from the wings throughout the evening.
Flat Pack Music is a North-West England music charity focused on providing a positive change in the perception of and engagement with music and the performing arts. Further details including their upcoming productions can be found at https://www.flatpackmusic.co.uk/
Reviewer: Mark Davoren
Reviewed: 12th October 2024
North West End UK Rating: