Spearheaded by conductor Joseph Vella and stage director Enrico Stinchelli, Teatru Astra has staged, year in and year out, refreshing and compelling opera productions that grace the finest and most prestigious boards anywhere in the world.
And this year's production of La Boheme will certainly not disappoint. For this new, scenically-dazzling production of Puccini's all-time favorite, Teatru Astra has engaged a formidable cast.
The leading duo features Miriam Cauchi, whose gold cast credentials as a poignant Puccini interpreter are second to none as evidenced by the outstanding success scored alongside Joseph Calleja in a recent Malta concert featuring the unparalleled love duet which closes the first act of La Boheme, is partnered by Leonardo Caimi who is making his Malta debut. With a beautiful, warm passionate Italian voice sustained by a faultless technique, and a superb stage persona, Caimi is much sought after worldwide for the role of Rodolfo.
Defined by critics as "the voice which sets audiences' hearts on fire", baritone Devid Cecconi, is another trump card. Blessed with a dark, yet clear timbre, evocative of the great Gino Bechi, Cecconi is a perfect fit as the combative Marcello. Bass Gabriele Sagona, a rising star, is highly valued for his sonorous, elegant and deep voice in the best of the Italian tradition. The role of coquettish and teasing Musetta has been entrusted to Oana Andra who is endowed with a crystalline voice, and impressive histrionic powers.
The Teatru Astra Opera Chorus, coached by Maria Frendo, is highly praised for its refinement of expression, an effortlessness of technique and an interpretative poise unequalled hitherto in the local milieu.
The recent landmark productions of Othello (2013) and Nabucco (2104) have been eloquent testimonials to the Chorus' vocal prowess and total immersion in the mise-en-scène. Although in La Boheme the chorus is not on the stage from the word go, much is demanded both as regards the nimble and complex score and the nonchalance and gaiety of goings on. This is indeed not the case of a low profile coro muto!
The technical team led by artist Joseph Cauchi, under the direction of Enrico Stinchelli, is making sure that once you step into the spacious Astra auditorium, you are stepping into the fabled 1830 Paris' Latin Quarter! It will be unmistakably Paris: a feast for the senses.
There will indeed be magic at the Teatru Astra on Thursday 29 and Saturday 31 October.
La Bohème forms part of the 14th edition of Festival Mediterranea, supported by a Cultural Partnership Agreement with the Government of Malta. Booking is now open on 21550985, 79256897 or email: [email protected]
For more information, visit www.mediterranea.com.mt