REVIEW - OPERA NORTH's THE MAGIC FLUTE | THE LOWRY | 13/03/2025

Mozart’s The Magic Flute has long been considered one of the most accessible and enchanting operas, combining fairy tale adventure, dazzling music, and a whimsical singspiel format. First performed in 1791, its blend of spoken dialogue and sublime arias makes it an ideal introduction to opera. Opera North’s latest revival of James Brining’s 2019 production brings fresh energy to the work, reimagining it as a young girl’s surreal dream, full of mystical creatures, shifting scenery, and hidden depths.

The plot follows Prince Tamino, who is rescued from a monstrous serpent by three mysterious women in the service of the Queen of the Night. Given a portrait of Pamina, the Queen’s daughter, Tamino instantly falls in love and vows to rescue her from the clutches of Sarastro, a high priest who the Queen portrays as a villain. Accompanied by the comical bird-catcher Papageno, and armed with a magical flute and enchanted bells, Tamino embarks on a journey of trials and self-discovery. However, as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that not all is as it seems, and the true nature of good and evil is questioned in a world of shifting allegiances and secret rituals.

Themes of enlightenment, love, and personal growth are explored as Tamino and Pamina undergo a series of challenges to prove their worth. Meanwhile, Papageno’s own journey for love and companionship provides light-hearted moments, balancing the opera’s weightier philosophical themes. The iconic arias, particularly the Queen of the Night’s formidable ‘Der Hölle Rache,’ and the grand choral sequences elevate the storytelling to an emotional and theatrical high point.

Colin Richmond’s imaginative set design enhances the dreamlike quality of the production, featuring a blend of gothic and surreal imagery. The shape-shifting scenery, from enchanted forests to towering temple-like structures, immerses the audience in a visually captivating world. The use of projections further enhances this mystical atmosphere, transforming the stage into celestial landscapes and intricate architectural wonders that shift and evolve throughout the performance.

The Queen of the Night’s costume is a striking mix of regal elegance and eerie decay, reflecting her descent into desperation. The Three Ladies, dressed as fearsome nurses with bloodstained aprons and pointed hats, add an unsettling edge to the production.

Mozart’s diverse score, ranging from the playful folk-inspired melodies of Papageno to the grandeur of Sarastro’s ceremonial music, is performed with precision and vitality by the Orchestra of Opera North. Conductor Patrick Lange, making his company debut, brings out the depth and nuance in the music, ensuring each moment lands with emotional and dramatic weight.

The cast delivered some outstanding performances, Trystan Llŷr Griffiths brings a warm, honeyed tenor to Tamino, capturing the prince’s heroism and sincerity. Soraya Mafi shines as Pamina, delivering a heartfelt and beautifully controlled performance, making her trials deeply affecting. Emyr Wyn Jones is outstanding as Papageno, infusing the role with comedic charm and rich baritone warmth.

Anna Dennis’s Queen of the Night is both regal and menacing, tackling her fiendishly difficult arias with precision and power. Justin Hopkins lends an authoritative presence to Sarastro. The Three Ladies, played by Charlie Drummond, Katie Sharpe, and Hazel Croft, bring sass and sharp comic timing, their lightsaber-like weapons adding a fun modern twist. Pasquale Orchard’s Papagena is a delightful burst of energy, pairing brilliantly with Jones for their crowd-pleasing duet.

Opera North’s The Magic Flute is a triumph, it's a visually striking and musically rich production that balances playful comedy with darker themes. While some aspects of Brining’s staging remain enigmatic, particularly the ambiguous final tableau, the strength of the cast and the vibrant storytelling ensure an engaging experience. With its accessible English translation, subtitles, and inclusive features like sign interpretation, this production continues Opera North’s commitment to making opera a joy for all. Whether you’re a seasoned opera-goer or new to the genre, this enchanting production is a must-see, offering a captivating journey through music, magic, and storytelling.

Opera North’s The Magic Flute is at The Lowry until Friday 14th March 2025. Tickets are available for purchase through the link provided below.

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If you would like more information about the show, please click the button below to visit the show's official website.

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Photo Credit - Tristram Kenton

*Our tickets for this show were kindly gifted in exchange for an honest review.