[squash54]

Of all the superb operas created by the genius of Pucinni, La Boheme is, for me, the best, and a couple of nights ago I saw an absolutely stunning production of it by Opera Australia.

I have lost count of the number of times I have seen different productions of this over the years and, until now, thought the Baz Luhrmann version would never be equalled, let alone surpassed.

The original production was set in contempory Paris at the end of the 19th century and most of productions in the 100 odd years since have left it there.
The contempory setting and the story of bohemian youth and "loose" morals raised a few eyebrows in Victorian Europe, at the time. However, young people loved it and its simple story of boy meets girl, boy loses girl, boy finds girl again who dies in his arms - together with hugely melodic and gay (pop) music, wit, comedy and a tear-jerker final scene.

This latest production has it set in the 21st century and the marching band that wraps up the finale of the second act is replaced with a spectacular break dance performance. Costumes and hairstyles are all VERY modern as well.

To top it off, the cast were young, could sing AND act and the audience (and the critics) adored it. A special mention must be made of the young singer who played Mimi - Antionette Halloran. A superb and powerful soprano who is destined for a stellar international career, IMHO, particularly playing Pucinni and Verdi heroines.

If you are interested to listen to a recorded version of this opera the Freni/Pavarotti is probably the most famous and readily available. I also highly recommend the DVD of Opera Australia's Baz Luhrmann production (also on CD).

[Nightfly]

Squash,

Sounds wonderful..La Boheme is one of my favorite Pucinni Opera's
as well, and I also have the Freni/Pavarotti version for many years.
Some day I might give a more modern reading a chance.