On Wednesday, I took in the opening night of Rigoletto by Pacific Opera Victoria. The show delivered a skilled and modern take on this classic opera!
While I do think modern audiences may bristle against the text’s obsession with virginity and “purity” of women, the theme of bawdy conquests of women by a jerk-playboy type is so modern and relevant in every day and every age (just ask anyone you know who’s currently on a dating app).
A unique twist of this production was setting was Victorian era London, and this added a level of intrigue and interest, with the overall effect feeling dark, run down, and grimy. This was contrasted against the opulence of the upper class characters dress and accoutrements. This setting did much to enhance the themes of the play (and offered visual standout contrast to Gilda in her virginal white costume), but from a visual perspective did feel a bit flat and even a little hard to see at times.
Early in the performance, I found that the male chorus all being dressed the same felt like a wall of indistinguishable, nameless people. While initially a little offsetting, I believe this was done with purpose. The chorus acts as yes-men for bad behaviour: shaming women, mocking their “friends”, and laughing at genuine pleas for mercy. This mob dressed all the same showed how pernicious bad friends are in leading their friends down the path enabling, and even encouraging, even worse behaviour.
Pacific Opera Victoria has brought us so many incredible performers, and this show is no exception. The tragic, flawed Rigoletto played by Grant Youngblood was emotionally captivating, breathing new life and sharing a layered, nuanced man. Rigoletto’s flawed plan of vengeance contrasts so painfully with his daughter Gilda’s willingness to forgive and love with openheartedness. Sarah Dufresne’s Gilda may be one of the best performances in an opera that I have seen to date. Defresne adds pathos to a role that could have been a character lacking in nuance. Instead her technical prowess and emotional range shines. The whole cast is to be commended, but these two especially were standout performers the night we saw the production.
I think it’s fair to say Rigoletto is something of an opera-lovers opera but this production welcomes viewers of all comfort levels. It’s engaging, and plays the heartfelt moments to great effect.
Rigoletto plays until April 29th, 2025
Disclaimer: I received free tickets to the show as a result of other volunteer work I do. No review was expected or requested.
