The Magic Flute is arguably an opera that welcomes many newcomers to the world of an opera performance for the first time. Directed by James Brining for Opera North, this particular opera is certainly aimed at all ages. With singing and spoken dialogue, plus screens at the side of the stage to follow the words, it is a reassuringly easy opera for all to follow.
The Magic Flute is an opera with two acts and with music by Mozart. The story is essentially about Prince Tamino who is yearning to discover love. It relays his quest to do so and provides audience with a story centred in a world of make belief. Prince Tamino is given various trials to ensure he can gain the love of Princess Pamina. He is accompanied by Papagano, the bird man and the two completely opposite characters share the adventure together. Of course, not all goes according to plan and there are some sinister twists and turns along the way.
Trystan Llyr Griffiths (Tamino) has many accolades to his name, however this is his first Opera North production. Vocally his warm tones are impressive to hear, making for powerful storytelling as a lead performer. It is surely hoped that he will appear in many more Opera North performances. His duets and interaction with Pamina (Soraya Mafi) were a joy to watch.
Emyr Wyn Jones provided the performance of the night as Papagano, the bird catcher. From the very first scene he appeared in during Act one his stage presence was phenomenal. He displayed a simply outstanding vocal with a hint of a beautiful detectable Welsh accent. He was humorous throughout his role yet there was an equal amount of sincerity to his performance also through his simplistic characterisation of his part.
Soraya Mafi (Pamina) was the perfect princess and demonstrated her undying love for Tamino to perfection. Her vocals were stunning and her solo pieces incredible. She often moved around the entire stage, and it was hard to take eyes away from her when she was on stage.
Visually the stage was colourful and vibrant. No scene disappointed and the depth on stage for the opening scene was intriguing with a hint of a lively party going on behind doors in the next room. It framed the opening to the entire story well and was a perfect introduction to its unravelling.
It would be remiss not to acknowledge Conductor Patrick Lange. Mozarts music is a joy on many levels but the orchestra under Langes control was powerful. Accompanying the many arias and ensemble pieces the operatic voices and music were the perfect companions. It also feels important to acknowledge the incredible BSL interpreters that were integrated in the entire performance, again acknowledging Opera Norths desire to ensure opera is for the masses and not the few.
It is understood that Mozart composed The Magic Flute in 1791 during an intense year. Having died 9 weeks after the premiere it is a travesty he may not have realized the joy that this rich, colourful, opera delivered to many and is still providing the same joy today.
James Brinings excellent direction ensures that this opera appeals to everyone. With mystery and fantasy along with romance and evil this is an absolute classic that will surely entice first time opera enthusiasts to want to see more.
Reviewer: Angela Kelly
Reviewed: 13th March 2025
North West End UK Rating:
Rating: 5 out of 5.
