Seton Hall University Classical Concert Series 2023 Review: Cavalleria Rusticana

The traditional Cav/Pag double-bill has a flaw: “Pagliacci” overshadows “Cavalleria Rusticana.” As a result, “Cavalleria,” like an amuse-bouche, is a warmup for a more exciting opera. This bias in the Cav/Pag pairing seems illogical. Both operas are set in rural Italian/Sicilian villages, feature true-to-life characters, love triangles, and culminate in utter tragedy. Mascagni’s “Cavalleria Rusticana” stands as the first opera {…}

Wexford Festival Opera 2023 Review: L’Italiana In Algeri

(Photo: Padraig Grant) The success of the Wexford Factory, the festival’s development program for young singers, was splendidly illustrated by its presentation of Rossini’s comic opera “L’Italiana in Algeri.” Without exception, the singers engaged enthusiastically with Conor Hanratty’s fast-moving and highly amusing staging that kept the audience entertained and laughing along. Although they possess various levels of experience, all produced {…}