Isabeau | Opera Holland Park, London, July 14-28, 2018
UK premiere of Pietro Mascagni’s 1911 opera, co-produced with New York City Opera. Directed by Martin Lloyd-Evans with conductor Francesco Cilluffo, the production starred David Butt Philip as Folco, Anne-Sophie Duprels in the title role, and Mikhail Svetlov as King Raimondo. This rarely-performed work told the Godiva legend relocated to medieval Italy—a princess whose beauty captivates a kingdom, a king’s cruel decree, and a falcon-keeper’s forbidden love.
takis’ set design recreated a medieval environment with “high majestic towers, low townhouses with windows that will be sealed tight when Isabeau rides through the streets, twisting stairwells and alleyways.” Reviews noted “a pre-Raphaelite preciousness” to the visual symbolism, including elaborate elements like a silver falcon sculpture and rich color contrasts that captured Mascagni’s lush romanticism. The design served the opera’s mix of pageantry and intimacy, from crowd scenes to private tragedy.
Opera Holland Park‘s outdoor setting in Holland Park’s elegant temporary theatre added another layer to the medieval atmosphere, with London’s summer twilight enhancing the production’s romantic aesthetic.
Creative Team: Composer: Pietro Mascagni | Director: Martin Lloyd-Evans | Set Designer: takis | Conductor: Francesco Cilluffo | Co-producer: New York City Opera