Ep 9. Lucia di Lammermoor

Lucia di Lammermoor is the ninth episode of the 36th season of Great Performances. This episode celebrates the timeless and beloved opera Lucia di Lammermoor, a masterpiece by Gaetano Donizetti. The opera is based on a novel by Sir Walter Scott and tells the tragic story of Lucia, a young Scottish girl who is forced to marry a man she does not love and is torn between her duty to her family and her own desires.

This production of Lucia di Lammermoor is a joint effort between The Metropolitan Opera and the Royal Opera House in London. It stars the renowned South African soprano Pretty Yende in the title role, opposite the Mexican tenor Javier Camarena as her lover Edgardo. The rest of the cast includes American baritone Quinn Kelsey as Lucia's brother Enrico and English bass-baritone Christophoros Stamboglis as their advisor Raimondo.

The production is directed by Katie Mitchell and conducted by Italian maestro Riccardo Frizza. The sets and costumes were designed by Vicki Mortimer, with lighting by James F. Ingalls and video by Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui. This production premiered at the Royal Opera House in April 2016 and was later broadcast to cinemas around the world as part of the Met's Live in HD series.

The opera begins with the famous sextet, one of the most iconic and challenging pieces in all of opera. It sets the tone for the rest of the work, with its intricate harmonies and complex vocal lines. The plot is full of drama, betrayal, and heartbreak, as Lucia is forced to marry Arturo, a man she does not love, while still being in love with Edgardo. Enrico, Lucia's brother, is desperate to keep his family's power and ends up manipulating his sister and causing her downfall.

But while the plot is certainly gripping, it's the music that really makes Lucia di Lammermoor a masterpiece. Donizetti's score is full of breathtaking arias, duets, and ensembles, showcasing the range and versatility of the human voice. From Lucia's haunting mad scene to Edgardo's wrenching final aria, the music is a perfect match for the tragic story. The production stays true to the spirit of the original work, while adding its own creative twists and modern touches.

The performers are all at the top of their game, with Yende and Camarena in particular shining in their roles. Yende's Lucia is a delicate, fragile creature, who gradually descends into madness as her world falls apart around her. Her singing is full of nuance and emotion, and she executes the tricky coloratura passages with ease. Camarena, meanwhile, is a passionate and intense Edgardo, with a voice that soars effortlessly to the highest registers. Together they make a memorable pair, bringing both tenderness and ferocity to their duets.

Kelsey is a formidable Enrico, with a powerful baritone and a commanding stage presence. He portrays Enrico's ruthless ambition without sacrificing his humanity, making him a more complex and sympathetic character. Stamboglis, as Raimondo, brings a gravitas and authority to his role, while still being a compassionate and caring figure.

The design of the production is also worth noting, with Mortimer's sets and costumes taking full advantage of the opera's Scottish setting. The use of video projections, too, adds an extra layer of visual interest, while never detracting from the singers themselves. Mitchell's direction is subtle and effective, emphasizing the emotional core of the story without resorting to cheap theatrics.

Overall, this production of Lucia di Lammermoor is a triumph, showcasing the best of opera and bringing a timeless classic to a modern audience. Whether you're a seasoned opera buff or a newcomer to the genre, there is something to appreciate and enjoy in this production.