By: Fan of Wagner's Works

Fan of Wagner's Works — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 22:46:58 +0000

It is neither Conlon’s nor Wagner’s fault that the production was a disaster. Musically, the performance was excellent; the orchestra played exceptionally and most of the singers did very well also. The sole reason for the failure is Los Angeles Opera’s choice of Achim Freyer as the designer and director of the production. This particular decision was made by Plácido Domingo. Domingo was familiar with Freyer’s style and knew very well what kind of production he would get from Freyer; consider the two previous productions which Freyer has done for Los Angeles. I almost cannot blame Freyer for simply making what he feels is art; perhaps in some situations, it may actually work. It is Domingo who failed to recognize that Freyer’s avant-garde methods would not complement Wagner’s masterpiece, but rather eclispse it. In light of the numerous complaints regarding Los Angeles Opera’s many failed productions over the past few years, it is important to remember who chooses them: general director Domingo. Unless the opera-goers of Los Angeles wish for more Freyer ring cycles and Wilson Madama Butterflies, Domingo’s mistakes must be made clear to him. At the performances of Die Walküre, Domingo will certainly take his standard curtain calls, expecting the usual enthusiastic applause of his infallible voice; however, I believe that this presents a perfect opportunity to show him that his decisions have not all been perfect and that Los Angeles Opera subscribers do not want any more of these hideous, art-destroying modern distortions which he has brought upon us. I suggest that audience members should boo him. He is a good enough singer to know that if he is booed, it is not because of his performance. Perhaps a widespread display of displeasure will convince him to reevaluate his choices. Opera is,at its best, a magical experience; at its worst, it is simply depressing.

Comments on: The Ring Resounds

By: Fan of Wagner's Works