(FOUR STARS)
Premiered in 1853, “Il Trovatore” It is one of the most famous operas of Giuseppe Verdi. Curiously, this work with an intricate plot and admirable music was absent from the stage of the Colon Theater for more than two decades.
The return of this title in the current season of the Buenos Aires Coliseum occurred in a semi-assembled version, without scenery or costumes. This is a difficult decision to accept in a self-produced theater such as the Colón, capable of manufacturing all the necessary elements to stage a show, although it is
also understandable if it is implemented as a cost-saving strategy in times of crisis. In addition, it was chosen to do so with a title that had a cast capable of making the viewer forget, at times, the absence of a staging.
In an almost completely stripped-down setting, with rings of different sizes going up and down, lighting was the crucial factor in generating climates. But the ones who sustained the entire evolution of the plot were the solo singers, with fluid movements, interactions and gestures that allowed a convincing dramatic development.
The presence of Anna Netrebko in the role of Leonora was, of course, the main attraction of this semi-staged opera. Owner of a sumptuous and warm voice, which she dominates with dazzling flexibility and naturalness, the stupendous Russian soprano gave an unforgettable performance. The great scene of her from the fourth act of her was as touching as it was memorable.
In the role of the troubadour Manrico, the tenor Yusif Eyvazof displayed his impetuous singing and did not disappoint in the famous cabaletta “Di quella pira”. The baritone Fabián Veloz, with his velvety timbre and elegant phrasing, composed a Conde de Luna de
refined evil, while the mezzo Olesya Petrova, as the gypsy Azucena, brought the drama and intensity that the role requires, with solid vocal resources.
Giacomo Sagripanti, in charge of the musical direction, mastered the balance between voices and orchestra with solvency, with precision in the appropriate tempi and nuances. Special mention deserves the Stable Choir, located in the stands, which he excelled in all his interventions.
