UK Theatre Network

Opera Novella is currently touring the UK with their English language version of Verdi’s Rigoletto featuring an international cast and accompanied by a chamber orchestra. 

At a ball at the ducal court of Mantua. Count Monterone appeals to the womanizing Duke for the return of his dishonoured daughter, but finds himself cruelly mocked by the jester Rigoletto. Enraged, Monterone calls down a father's curse on the jester. Rigoletto immediately rushes to his house and warns his daughter Gilda to remain concealed in their home. Gilda does not reveal to her father that she has fallen in love with a handsome young man she has encountered on her way to church. The object of her affections is, of course, the Duke who pretends to be a poor student. After Rigoletto leaves, the courtiers come to abduct Gilda. They trick Rigoletto into assisting them, assuring him that it is the Countess Ceprano they are abducting from the neighbouring house. When Rigoletto realizes what has happened, he remembers the curse.

Rigoletto is directed by Howard Guard whose concept incorporates contrasts of black and white which he sees as a visual demonstration of the tragic/comic nature of Rigoletto's predicament.  However, I did not find the set design or the costumes particularly original. The set looked very basic, even for a touring company – except for the Duke’s palace complete with gaudy portrait. The costumes were a strange mix of period and contemporary clothing which seemed somewhat inconsistent. 

The first act of the production was rather slow paced. The opening speech of the Maid was too soft and the actress did not project very well. The Duke seemed strangely oblivious of Gilda who should be the object of his desire. There were problems with the lighting and some of the supporting cast moved in mysterious ways. However, the performance became much more focused after the first interval, which was mostly due to the amazing chemistry between Simon Lobelson as Rigoletto and Amanda Forbes as Gilda.  Their scene together after Gilda’s rape was truly heartbreaking. I would gladly see the production again just to watch this scene one more time. Both Lobelson and Forbes are truly exceptional in their respective parts. I just wish the production itself lived up to their high standard.  

Further touring dates: 

6 August 2011:  Hever Castle, Edenbridge
10 September 2011:  St. Nicholas Church, Great Munden
18 September 2011:  The Queen's Theatre, Hornchurch