Returning to Opera North, Fflur Wyn makes her role debut as Susanna, Phillip Rhodes charms in title role and Alexandra Oomens makes her house debut in Mozart's comical masterpiece, all of which have been highly praised:
“Soprano Fflur Wyn was a terrific, spirited Susanna, her voice purer and clearer the higher she reached, and adept at the stylised gestures used by all the characters, particularly with the arms and hands.”
“Rhodes’s considerable acting skills and dark voice were just right for the part.”
Richard Wilcocks, Bachtrack****
"The New Zealand baritone Phillip Rhodes relaxed into the title role immediately, despite taking it on for the first time. It fitted him like a glove. His Figaro retained unclouded optimism in the face of every setback, helped by warm, clear tone and eyebrows that crinkled with mirth at every excuse. Opposite him was Fflur Wyn, also new to her role as Susanna, a calculating creature - Antonio's social-climbing niece - rather than a playful minx. Her soprano was light and clean... Alexandra Oomens was the peppy Barbarina."
Martin Dreyer, Opera Magazine
“Fflur Wyn’s Susanna is sweet and down to earth”
“There are also standout performances from Heather Lowe as Cherubino and Alexandra Oomens who makes an all too brief but memorable appearance as Barbarina.”
John Murphy, The Stage****
“Phillip Rhodes was an outstanding Figaro: he has an impressive roster of roles to his name, and his flexible, finely coloured baritone blended beautifully with Fflur Wyn’s mercurial Susanne. Much thought had been given to their duets … their vocal intertwining was sublime."
“Alexandra Oomens showed much promise as Barbarina.”
Melanie Eskenazi, MusicOMH****
“Under the direction of Davies, this cast is led by Rhodes and Wyn who have put on an excellent performance”
Dawn Smallwood, The Reviews Hub
Performance dates can be found here.
Photo credit: Robert Workman
