Last night at Paris’ Bastille Opera House, Hugh Kerr from Edinburgh Music Review provided his impressions of the operatic spectacle ‘Salome’, which played to a full house. While the production itself was previously met with criticism, anticipation was high to witness Lise Davidsen’s interpretation of the title role.
Davidsen, celebrated as one of the foremost dramatic sopranos globally, offered an exceptional performance, casting the story as a poignant love affair with Johan Reuter’s commanding Jochanaan. Both stars shared an emotionally charged duet from within an iron cage, making Salome’s song about a blood-tainted kiss all the more stirring.
The opera boldly tackled themes of sensuality and nudity through the lens of contemporary staging, although explicit scenes were relegated to the background. Attention remained honed in on Salome’s advances towards Jochanaan at the stage front. Notable performances included Pavel Breslik as Narraboth, who took a dramatic departure from tradition with his staged suicide.
In lieu of the Dance of the Seven Veils, a provocative undressing of Salome by Herodes took place, which was made all the more compelling by Davidsen’s powerful presence. Gerhard Siegel portrayed an impressively vile Herod, complemented by Ekaterina Gubanova’s portrayal of a capriciously expressed Herodias. Supporting roles maintained the high bar set by the leads, with Mark Wigglesworth and the Paris Opera Orchestra providing a transcendent orchestral backdrop.
Despite the production’s director, Lydia Steier, introducing oft-deemed unnecessary embellishments, Davidsen’s dazzling performance and connection with the audience triumphed, earning her multiple ovations and a string of curtain calls, a testament to her magnetic allure.
photo: Lise Davidsen takes her bow
Hugh Kerr is the editor of the Edinburgh Music Review. A more detailed review will be published in the outlet soon.
FAQ about Lise Davidsen and ‘Salome’
Who is Lise Davidsen?
Lise Davidsen is a Norwegian soprano recognized as one of the world’s leading dramatic sopranos.
What is ‘Salome’?
‘Salome’ is an opera in one act by Richard Strauss to a German libretto by the composer, based on the play ‘Salomé’ by Oscar Wilde.
What role does Lise Davidsen play in ‘Salome’?
Lise Davidsen performs the title role of Salome.
Who else starred in this production of ‘Salome’?
Alongside Lise Davidsen, Johan Reuter played Jochanaan, Pavel Breslik was Narraboth, Gerhard Siegel played Herod, and Ekaterina Gubanova portrayed Herodias.
Who was the conductor?
Mark Wigglesworth conducted the Paris Opera Orchestra for this production.
Conclusion
The opening night of ‘Salome’ at the Bastille proved to be a magnetic event, thanks primarily to Lise Davidsen’s enthralling performance. Despite divisive elements in the production, the raw power and talent of Davidsen and her colleagues shone through. They brought contemporary flavor to Strauss’s music and Wilde’s captivating narrative, once again demonstrating operatic art’s ability to adapt and mesmerize modern audiences. Davidsen’s reception signals an encouraging tradition of success as she continues to grace stages worldwide.