“The Barber of Seville” at the LA Opera, under the masterful direction of Rob Ashford, is a riot of musical brilliance and comedic ingenuity. Ashford’s guidance ensures that not a single moment goes to waste, expertly fusing Rossini’s 1816 bel canto virtuosity with the exuberant flair of a Broadway musical. Louis Lohraseb’s enthusiastic conducting infuses the performance with a contagious energy that electrifies the entire production. The result is an operatic extravaganza that marries musical excellence with uproarious entertainment.

Central to this triumphant production is the technically adroit ensemble, more than capable of meeting the challenge presented by Rossini’s intricate music. With its ever-shifting tempos, soaring vocal lines, rapid-fire arias, and monumental crescendos, this cast navigates the operatic intricacies with finesse.

“An operatic extravaganza…expertly fusing bel canto virtuosity with the exuberant flair of a Broadway musical.”

In the heart of the performance, mezzo-soprano Isabel Leonard enchants as Donna Elvira, embodying Rosina with seductive charm and cunning wit. Her ideal co-conspirator, baritone Joshua Hopkins, brings the jack-of-all-trades Figaro to life with charisma and a comedic brilliance. Tenor Edgardo Rocha, in the role of her love interest, Count Almaviva, infuses the production with a dashing presence. Bass-baritone Paolo Bordogna’s portrayal of the vexing Dr. Bartolo is nothing short of a masterclass in operatic comedy, stealing scenes with ease. Together, this ensemble weaves a tapestry of talent that elevates the opera to sublime heights.

The opera’s plot, based on Pierre Beaumarchais’s French comedy, weaves a tale of mistaken identities, disguises, and clever stratagems, a testament to Rossini’s genius as a composer. Scott Pask’s scenic design is a visual marvel, featuring Hellenistic stone archways adorned with exquisitely carved wooden doors and ornate iron lattices. The revolving stage, a stroke of ingenuity, seamlessly transitions identical set components between outdoor and indoor scenes, revealing fresh and captivating elements with each twist. The opera is an exuberant celebration of music, mirth, and even wit, delivering an unforgettable evening of operatic delight.

— G. Dhalla

The Barber of Seville is playing at the LA Opera through November 12th. Tickets HERE.