Le bourgeois gentilhomme

Although Lully was of Italian descent, he was the composer that revolutionised French opera. This is my first proper exposure to Moliere, and the results with the two collaborating is Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme, a truly excellent work in every regard. I am glad to say that I am going to say the same thing for the production, and go even further than that. It looks absolutely stunning visually, true to period and vividly opulent as well as beautifully shot. I also liked that the use of candle lights gave some parts a surrealistic quality, proving to be a very striking image. If you love or appreciate Lully, you'll love his music here, and I have no complaints whatsoever. The dialogue is witty and quite poetic, there is a great deal of it but never felt overused, while the choreography for the ballet is both elegant and imaginative with the dancing matching that. I liked the performances and singing every bit as much, it was interesting to see Monsieur Jourdain as young and naive instead of grotesque and somewhat tyrannical and it worked very well with Olivier Martin really making the most of his role. With the singing, there is evidence of a lively style, lovely and ideal tone and attention to intonation. All in all, ravishing for all senses. 10/10 Bethany Cox