Opera Queensland’s Orpheus & Eurydice is a heartbreaking tale at its core but a phenomenal production suitable for viewers of all backgrounds. Whilst this tale is a tragic one, it still presents a display of visual poetry to the audience. Orpheus & Eurydice doesn’t solely include Opera Queensland’s talented performers, because the stage is shared with acrobats from Circa Ensemble accompanied by the finest sounds produced from the Queensland Symphony Orchestra.
You won’t regret spending your night watching Orpheus & Eurydice, due to the live action circus display as well as the marvelous talents of Owen Willetts as ‘Orpheus’ and Natalie Christie Peluso as ‘Eurydice’ and ‘Amor’. The way this performance is visually constructed for the viewer is rather pleasant given the dark nature of the topic. The lighting and stage design is exceptional and that is thanks to Alex Berlage and Yaron Lifschitz respectively.
It all starts with an opening video that is looped on two hands reaching and, in a way glitching, as they slip away from each other. This alone sets the tone of the piece, and I feel as though the nuance involved in this production is outstanding. Given the tale that it is, which is one that centres around grief, and that it is seldom acknowledged in mainstream arts and culture, this is what makes Orpheus & Eurydice a unique and refreshing work from Opera Queensland.
For those unfamiliar with Orpheus & Eurydice, it focuses on the journey one man must take into the Underworld to rescue his beloved. But can ‘Orpheus’ resist looking back into the eyes of his true love in order to save her? This tragic and ancient tale ultimately emphasises the human need for love. With the swelling orchestral music performed by the flawless Queensland Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Dane Lam, you have all dramatic tension in the world with this performance, and that is only the beginning.
Whilst I have mentioned the fantastic set design work by Yaron Lifschitz, it has come to my attention that this is not the sole contribution he has made to this production. Yaron Lifschitz is the Director of Orpheus & Eurydice, and interestingly enough the set design had caught my attention so much to the point that this is the first credit I looked for. Lifschitz has definitely put on quite the show. Not to mention the acrobatic stunts that are performed throughout the show that appear to be quite difficult, and almost dangerous, but are pulled off by the Circa Ensemble effortlessly.
There is so much to say about Orpheus & Eurydice that has been done well. From the costumes, such as the beautiful red dress ‘Amor’ wears, to the intimate lighting and complex acrobatic stunts to the way the lyrics are written on the back of the stage wall, there is so much beauty in this production to witness. You will gasp, you will shed a tear and most of all you will enjoy this powerful and moving production. Do yourself a favour and get your tickets booked before this tale returns to the Underworld.
Playhouse Theatre, QPAC
Until 9 Nov, 2019
Review: Joanna Letic
Photo Credit: Jade Ferguson