The Marriage of Figaro

Opera North,

Newcastle Theatre Royal

WITH every seat sold in the house, this is indeed a marriage made in heaven between Britain's youngest opera company and the North-East. If more people would take up the invitation to attend Puccini's La Rondine and newly-revamped Genoveva by Schumann then this will be a week to remember. Fun-filled Figaro reigns supreme. The audience adores the comic antics of the Count's manservant who attempts to marry the Countess' maid Susanna (a nicely-sung role from Colette Delahunt) before his employer can get his hands on her. The tall figure of James Rutherford makes an obvious impact as Figaro but Roderick Williams, as the conniving Count, shades the honours in this battle of the baritones. Majella Cullagh adds the impressive and finely-costumed role of the despairing Countess who finally brings her serial seducing husband to heel. Director Caroline Gawn adds some nice touches including an unenthusiastic reception for the Count from his "loyal" peasants and wedding guests although the phrase "simple peasants with simple presents" does grate a little. Acts three and four mix in some well-sung solos with a fine sense of farce, none more so than tiny Susanna losing her temper with tall Figaro and giving him a headbutt... a rare event in opera. The only complaint can be that the production over-runs by many minutes, but that's just more wedded bliss for Opera North fans.

Full credit to the company's use of hard-working freelance signer for the hard of hearing, Wendy Ebsworth.

Viv Hardwick

l There's a second chance to see Figaro on Friday, the opera Genoveva is on tomorrow, La Rondine runs on Saturday.

All performances start at 7.15pm. Tickets: £12-£39.

For details call the box office on 0191-232 2061