Conductor Mark Wigglesworth masterfully keeps the momentum going in Richard Jones' production of Boris Godunov, a gripping and dark opera by Mussorgsky that explores the brutalities of power. The score is dense and heavy, with monumental slabs of lower brass almost overwhelmed by the tolling of bells, while high woodwind provides fleeting moments of light.
On stage, Bryn Terfel brings his trademark intensity to the title role, a complex character marked by wild eyes, grim giggles, and violent outbursts. However, it's clear that this is no one-dimensional portrayal - Terfel brings depth and nuance to the role, imbuing Boris with both humanity and vulnerability.
Terfel's singing is matched by an impressive cast, including standout performances from Adam Palka as elderly monk Pimen and Andrii Kymach as the Boyar's clerk Andrei Shchelkalov. The set design by Richard Jones is a simple yet effective backdrop for the drama to unfold, with a beautifully lit charcoal-grey box and a small, bright yellow chamber above.
What sets this production apart, however, is its focus on the singing itself. The music is framed as the main event, with each scene building towards crisis in a relentless and unyielding way. It's a bold approach that pays off, with the cast delivering performances that are both physically and vocally demanding.
The pacing is tight, with Wigglesworth expertly drawing out contrast between the score's muddiest passages and the lighter moments of woodwind and strings. The chorus is clad in regulation peasant-drab until ordered to dress brightly for Boris's coronation, adding a touch of levity to an otherwise dark production.
Overall, this production of Boris Godunov is a gripping and intense take on Mussorgsky's darkest opera. With Bryn Terfel delivering a standout performance at its core, it's a must-see for anyone who loves the genre.
On stage, Bryn Terfel brings his trademark intensity to the title role, a complex character marked by wild eyes, grim giggles, and violent outbursts. However, it's clear that this is no one-dimensional portrayal - Terfel brings depth and nuance to the role, imbuing Boris with both humanity and vulnerability.
Terfel's singing is matched by an impressive cast, including standout performances from Adam Palka as elderly monk Pimen and Andrii Kymach as the Boyar's clerk Andrei Shchelkalov. The set design by Richard Jones is a simple yet effective backdrop for the drama to unfold, with a beautifully lit charcoal-grey box and a small, bright yellow chamber above.
What sets this production apart, however, is its focus on the singing itself. The music is framed as the main event, with each scene building towards crisis in a relentless and unyielding way. It's a bold approach that pays off, with the cast delivering performances that are both physically and vocally demanding.
The pacing is tight, with Wigglesworth expertly drawing out contrast between the score's muddiest passages and the lighter moments of woodwind and strings. The chorus is clad in regulation peasant-drab until ordered to dress brightly for Boris's coronation, adding a touch of levity to an otherwise dark production.
Overall, this production of Boris Godunov is a gripping and intense take on Mussorgsky's darkest opera. With Bryn Terfel delivering a standout performance at its core, it's a must-see for anyone who loves the genre.
I gotta say, watching this opera was like witnessing a masterclass in building tension - you feel like you're getting swept away by the brutalities of power 
. The way Bryn Terfel brought depth to Boris's character, showing both his humanity and vulnerability... it's just beautiful 
. It got me thinking, we all have our own struggles with power and control, whether it's in our personal lives or even in society at large 
. This production reminded me that true strength comes from acknowledging those vulnerabilities, not hiding behind them 
.
It's like they really dug deep into the soul of Mussorgsky's music and brought it to life in a way that's both hauntingly beautiful and downright terrifying 
. A dark opera about power struggles? That's right up my alley 
The attention to detail in the set design is so on point, I mean that simple charcoal-grey box is giving me all the mood vibes 
And can we talk about Bryn Terfel's performance? He totally nails the complexity of Boris' character - those wild eyes and grim giggles are EVERYTHING 
. I also loved how they didn't hold back on the drama, even in the lighter moments, it really adds to the tension 
. The set design is simple but effective too, it really helps to focus the attention on the singing 
. Overall, this production is a real standout and if you're a fan of opera, you need to see it 
. The whole cast delivers, but Terfel takes it to a whole new level. Adam Palka as Pimen was also super impressive - loved how nuanced his performance was 
. And that set design? Simple yet pure magic 
!
I just saw the most epic production of Boris Godunov ever! Mark Wigglesworth is a genius conductor, he really knows how to keep the energy going throughout the whole show. And Bryn Terfel as Boris? WOW! He's so intense and complex, you can feel the humanity in his performance. The music is just insane, I mean who knew lower brass could sound so heavy? 
i love how the set design is simple but effective, it really lets the music take center stage which is exactly what mussorgsky intended