Madrigalists: Angela Eden Moser, Jesslyn Thomas, Laurel Cameron Porter, Sally Mouzon. Chevalier des Grieux: Brian Jagde (Rafael Davita on November 26). Chorus Director: Ian Robertson.Įdmondo: Christopher Oglesby. Production Designer: Frank Philipp Schlössmann. Libretto by Ruggero Leoncavallo, Marco Praga, Giuseppe Giacosa, Domenico Oliva, and Luigi Illica. Rating: *** (For an explanation of TheatreStorm’s rating scale, click here.) ‘Manon Lescaut’ continues at the War Memorial Opera House through November 26. Turandot is Puccinis final opera (unfinished at his death) and perhaps as a result, it is by far and away his most musically. This “Manon Lescaut” will be best appreciated by committed fans of the opera, already very familiar with the music, and willing to forgive the flaws in the staging. Also, there are moments when both Jagde and Haroutounian seem to be evoking an acting style reminiscent of the 19th century–overblown and melodramatic, and inappropriate to Puccini’s intentions for opera verite.Īll of these flaws are absent from the final duet, which is magnificent, but by that time it is too late to save the production. This makes it difficult to follow the plot at times. Unfortunately, these many features are not enough to overcome an oddly clumsy staging, with performers’ movements (especially the chorus) seemingly random and unmotivated. Nicola Luisotti gets a wonderful sound out of the SF Opera Orchestra, and the overture and other orchestral sequences are highlights. Haroutounian is known for the exceptional power of her vocal instrument, and a capacity for extreme passion.Īs Manon’s brother, Anthony Clark Evans is an unusually convincing operatic actor, and as the lecherous Geronte di Ravoir, bass-baritone Phillip Skinner makes a fine villain. He is a singer who seems to achieve his effects effortlessly. Jagde has been extraordinarily busy, playing a huge variety of roles in major opera houses worldwide. The greatest joys of this production are the wonderful duets performed by the always excellent Brian Jagde and the great Lianna Haroutounian, both making role debuts. And the role of Manon is often described as an ideal showcase for a great soprano. The number of answers is shown between brackets. Puccinis opera singer (1) Puccinis second opera (1) Recent clues. The story of the rather shallow but fascinating Manon who denies true love in favor of a life of luxury with an older suitor is well suited to operatic treatment, and the opera is famous among connoisseurs for its multiple love duets, among the finest in the repertoire. We found 5 answers for the crossword clue Puccini opera. Much less familiar than Puccini’s “big three” masterpieces (La Boheme, Tosca, and Madama Butterfly), Manon Lescaut was the composer’s first great success. Reviewed by a voting member of the San Francisco Bay Area Theatre Critics Circle. Lianna Haroutounian as Manon and Brian Jagde as the Chevalier des Grieux in SF Opera’s production of Puccini’s first great success, “Manon Lescaut.” Photo Credit: Cory Weaver/SF Opera.