Benjamin Britten's Peter Grimes at Royal Opera House, 17.03.2022

Deborah Warner's production of Benjamin Britten's Peter Grimes has had its Royal Opera House premiere yesterday, and What a night it was. A fantastic performance - musically, scenically and dramatically. This dynamic, moving and very realistic production reunited great artists to deliver the best possible result.

The story of Peter Grimes is set in a fishermen's village, which was represented on the stage by a boat (at the beginning) and then by several props-items (fishing ropes, nets, containers, even boots and cloths) related to fishing trade and culture. The scene were skilfully changed during the interludes - so the public had a continuous musical experience without having to wait during small intervals. The realistic atmosphere was complemented by excellent lighting, expressing different moods, places or time (the pub, the shore, day or night).

This Benjamin Britten's score is simply as masterpiece: sometimes moody and impressionistic, evoking the flow of the tide, another time jazzy or musical-like, with all musical elements coming together very naturally and always expressing the deep drama and feelings which were underlining the whole performance. Several British singers were casted in main roles: the title role of Peter Grimes was sung by Allan Clayton, Bryn Terfel was casted as Captain Balstrode, John Tomlinson sang Swallow, Catherine Wyn-Rogers interpreting Auntie and others. Swedish operatic singer Maria Bengtsson sang the role of Ellen Orford. All singers were totally engaged with their roles, which brought a very believable and realistic portrait of their characters and actions. The pinnacle of the drama was the final Peter Grimes' aria which was delivered with perfection. The choir sang with great enthusiasm and participated in every action with equal engagement. Orchestra, led by British conductor Mark Elder, was a true star of the evening and (very rightly so) received a great applause at the end. The public absolutely loved it.

Peter Grimes is in Royal Opera House until the 31st of March 2022 and it has been truly one if the richest musical treats of the season.