Watch Rossini - La Cambiale di Matrimonio

Rossini's La Cambiale di Matrimonio is a comedic opera that effectively incorporates the youthful composer's trademark musical style. The opera was first performed in 1810, and it is still a popular production to this day. The opera opens to the character Tobias Mill, a wealthy merchant, who is arranging the marriage of his daughter, Fanny, to Slook, a Canadian businessman. However, when Fanny learns of the arrangement, she is gravely unhappy with the union and begs for Mill to cancel the wedding.

Without giving away the ending, the events that unfold throughout this joyful and light-hearted performance showcase the very best of Rossini's music: the clashing personalities of his characters' wanton dramas, his enduring tunes, and the skillful blending of instrumentation and vocal arrangement.

The cast of this performance cannot go underrated. John del Carlo's portrayal of Tobias Mill immerses the audience in the character's overbearing disposition, and his ability to switch seamlessly between gentle repose and stormy outbursts is both energetic and convincing. Janice Hall's Fanny, too, is nothing short of remarkable. her vocal range is such that she is able to capture the character's desperation and anguish at not being able to marry the man she loves while showcasing her clear command of her own abilities.

The supporting cast of La Cambiale di Matrimonio is equally as noteworthy. Arguably, the most enjoyable performance is that given by Peter Strummer as Slook. His physical comedy is both endearing and hilarious, and the audience can easily become enamored with his crisp vocal delivery. Meanwhile, Michel Lascault's rendition of Norton successfully walks a line between approachable and menacing. His character oozes despicableness without fully alienating the audience by making light of his own absurdities.

The set design found in La Cambiale di Matrimonio is relatively understated, yet supportive of the performance. The set is luxurious, but not overbearing. The use of long drapes, elegant screens, and some clever lighting showcases the action admirably, without drawing too much attention away from the unfolding drama.

Meanwhile, the costumes in the production are quite elegant, reflecting both the time period and the characters’ differing stations in life. Tobias Mill's outfit, for example, effortlessly communicates his status as a businessman, replete with crisp suit and tie. Fanny's attire, meanwhile, reflects the character's own sense of rebellion, a perfect depiction of a young woman striking out on her own.

Indeed, what sets La Cambiale di Matrimonio apart from other Rossini works is the lightheartedness of the opera itself. As the original interpretation may suggest, Rossini's incredible skill for writing music that demands a smile rather than a furrow of the brow is on full display here. Unlike heavier, more somber operas that can be quite morose, La Cambiale di Matrimonio focuses instead on the drama of its characters' relationships, producing a memorable and light-hearted performance that still holds significant appeal to modern audiences.

All in all, Rossini's La Cambiale di Matrimonio is a joyful creation that, thanks to the talented cast, and crew involved with this production, once again showcases Rossini's inimitable musical style. The audience is sure to be drawn in by the clashing moods and desires of the characters, with Rossini's music weaving the story from start to finish. It is an enchanting performance that is recommended viewing for anyone who is looking for some light-hearted entertainment.