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 {…}

Rossini Opera Festival 2021 Review: Elisabetta Regina d’Inghilterra

(Photo: Amati Bacciardi) “Elisabetta, Regina d’Inghilterra,” premiering in 1815, was Rossini’s first of eight operas for Naples’ Teatro di San Carlo. Having already established himself in Venice and Milan, he was set on conquering the Neapolitan public. This was no easy task, given the opposition he faced from the local cognoscenti. Such was his determination, however, he gave considerable attention {…}