REVIEW: La traviata (NZ Opera)

June 20, 2014

Shines, not sparkles [by Sharu Delilkan] Auckland really set the scene for the opening night of Giuseppe Verdi’s renowned opera La traviata with grey skies, cutting winds and the occasional burst of cold rain. On a night like this one might wish for a tragi-comedy or an uplifting story of trials and tribulations overcome by love and devotion. However clearly […]

REVIEW: The Bartered Bride (NBR NZ Opera)

September 25, 2012

Bartered then betrothed [by Sharu Delilkan] The word ‘opera’ conjures images of elitism and grandeur among people who don’t frequent the art form. And if you identify with that majority, NBR NZ Opera‘s version of The Bartered Bride would be a great first opera to see. It’s easy to understand, simple storyline and of course it’s highly accessible because it’s […]

REVIEW: Rigoletto (NBR NZ Opera)

June 9, 2012

Decadence, drama and death [by Sharu Delilkan] As I walked into the newly renovated ASB Theatre at the Aotea Centre it was impossible not to notice that the carpets had been replaced by the bright parquet flooring and new seats. The light and airy feel gave the theatre the added bit of cheer, which was much needed on an otherwise […]