Opera Boston's production of Smetana's 'The Bartered Bride' this weekend was certainly something, it was definitely not nothing. What it was is another question.
The little known Opera, taking place in this production in Spillville, Iowa in the 30's, is certainly cheeky, and is certainly meant to be a comic opera. It certainly ended up being more awkwardly comical than laugh out loud comical though. A love tale about a young girl who is basically sold into marriage to pay off a debt (sounds like a riot, right?), antics ensue and everything works out in the end.
Opera Boston in general puts on quality productions yet there were some flaws in this one. First off, the wardrobe choices were not becoming of the time period or subject many times (especially with Jennifer Aylmer who played the 'bartered bride', Marenka). This was more indicative that the choice to have the opera take place during the 30's in Iowa might not have been the best decision. Aylmer has one amazing voice yet she seemed almost more concerned about her acting at times than her singing. Patrick Miller, who played the male lead as Jenik was good if not preoccupied with acting as well.
It was James Maddalena as the marriage broker Kecal who made this show worth watching though. His demeanor fit his role, his personality melded flawlessly with his singing, and he was entertaining as all get out. Anyone who can make the most mind-numbingly repetitive and annoying line almost entertaining is a winner in my book (I get it, it is down in black and white).
The opera itself didn't lend itself to an amazing work of art but the music written for the opera most certainly did. Cartoonish conductor Gil Rose was a better actor than most folks on stage as he flailingly directed an amazing orchestra through some beautiful music.
All in all a good attempt at turning a mediocre opera into something more. Not a complete success but not everything can turn out as well as everyones lives did in this story.