State Opera have found a winning approach to Offenbach’s operetta that is sure to win friends and influence people, but be prepared for aching ribs, because this production will have you laughing your head off. You might just want to see it twice.
The sensational John Scofield Trio, and their opening act, The Airbenders, are superb and their respective repertoires are a fine showcase of their talents.
This was another very fine night of opera from our State Opera company, but you might need to be very quick if you still want to get tickets, if opening night’s full house was anything to judge by.
“We call it the Noah’s arc of The Arts”. The Mill is an idea in motion, for artists from all fields share a space at a subsidized price. It’s also a platform for artists to engage and foster new ideas with each other, to create a diverse, artistic hub in the middle of our city.
There were some bigger laughs here and there but, for the most part, it felt rather like a re-run of segments from shows that Lenny Henry had done long ago.
At the end of the show the entire audience leapt to its feet as one, clapping wildly, a fitting tribute to this member of Broadway royalty who had brought so much pleasure to those present.