OPERA Theatre Company is bringing ‘The Magic Flute’ to the concert hall on Thursday February 2 for one 8pm performance only. Staged in Dublin at the end of last year, this show directed by OTC’s artistic director Annilese Miskimmon got a rapturous response from critics. It is Limerick’s turn now to appreciate this last great work written by Amadeus Mozart in which true love for several people is star-crossed and hard won within its other worldly realm.
‘The Magic Flute’ is a lighthearted piece, delivered to us by a dozen cast and band of six musicians directed from the keyboards by Brenda Hurley.
Lisnagry man Owen Gilhooly has a prominent role as Papageno, “and he is the most human character in the whole piece,” this Gilhooly brother claims stoutly. “Papageno is a flesh and blood sort of character, a loveable rogue who is not the sharpest tool in the box, shall we say. But ultimately he is likeable, well intentioned and wants to find the love of his life, which he does”.
‘Tis a long and winding route being bird catcher to Queen of the Night (Allison Bell, Tasmanian soprano), a job that affords his bed and board. He takes the birds out of the sky for her but being fond of an overclaim here and there, is sentenced to a mission with Tamino (Adrian Dwyer, tenor) to free the hostage princess Pamina (Emma Marwood), daughter to the Queen and with whom Tamino is in love. Opera right enough, faith.
“There are obstacles and trials through which Papageno has to go through,” admits Owen. “This production of ‘The Magic Flute’ also has an interesting balance between the rights of women and masonic influence, something Annilese has picked up on. You can expect a lot of laughs”.
He finds his role to be a physical one that is great to sing for its lovely lyrical melodies, “a role that draws on you as an actor. It has been a great challenge from the acting point of view as you don’t want it to veer into slapstick”.
Ensemble playing in this tightly knit piece respects the work and the characters, clearing the ditch of vaudeville. Snoop on all the romances and drink up the arias on Thursday February 2, 8pm, booking at www.uch.ie and tel. 061-331549.
