"THE MERRY WIDOW," presented by Utah Opera; Saturday, May 13, 7:30 p.m., Capitol Theatre. Additional performances May 15, 17 and 19 at 7:30 p.m., and May 21 at 2 p.m. Tickets are available at the ArtTix outlet in the Capitol Theatre, or by calling ArtTix at (801) 355-ARTS or 1-888-451-ARTS.
In one of its most lavish productions, Utah Opera has brought Franz Lehar's lighthearted romp, "The Merry Widow," back to the stage of the Capitol Theatre after an absence of some 15 years.The version that Utah Opera is presenting is somewhat different from what most operagoers are accustomed to seeing. It was created by Richard Bonynge and Lotfi Mansouri (who is this production's stage director) for Joan Sutherland, and it is indeed a wonderful vehicle for the soprano.
Mansouri has expanded the work by adding a dance sequence and a couple of vocal numbers taken from some of Lehar's later operettas. These aren't necessary, though, and they hinder the flow of the story and are all too obviously filler material.
For example, there is a long scene in Act II in which Danilo tries to find the owner of a fan that he has found. Even though it's hilarious, this scene could easily have been left out or shortened considerably without damaging the plot.
And Act III opens with a ballet of dancing couples that reflects on the love between Danilo and Anna. Even though it was danced beautifully by members of Ballet West, this sequence nevertheless is repetitive, and it ends up becoming monotonous.
Pacing is also a problem with this production. Part of it is the fault of conductor Kirk Muspratt. His deliberate tempos (especially noticeable in Act I) slow the action down too much. And part of it is the fault of this production itself, as some of the scenes and vocal numbers drag and lose their momentum, and the comedy suffers accordingly.
And at three hours and 15 minutes, this "Merry Widow" is one overly long affair.
However, there are some great things in the production, too, which make sitting through it worthwhile.
The singers are outstanding. Pamela Armstrong (as the widow Anna Glawari) and Louis Otey (as Count Danilo Danilovitch), are simply incredible. They have fine, expressive voices, and they make a great couple.
The supporting cast is also superb. Christine Abraham (Valencienne) and Gregory Cross (Camille de Rosillon) are delightful. But Donald Sherrill (as the bumbling Baron Zeta) and Elijah Chester (as the Baron's inept secretary, Njegus), come very close to stealing the show with their antics.
The Utah Opera Chorus was once again in top form.
The Utah Symphony played well, although its sound was rather thin. It really needs to augment its string section with a few more players.
And as much as this production of "The Merry Widow" is vocally magnificent, it is also visually stunning. The costumes, designed by Thierry Bosquet, are breathtaking, and the art nouveau sets by Michael Yeargan are opulent.
In spite of its shortcomings, this production of "The Merry Widow" is still a must-see.
E-mail: ereichel@desnews.com