Reimagining Opera Philadelphia’s Festival O23
Philadelphia’s Festival O23 opened on Thursday night with the highly anticipated world premiere of the opera “10 Days in a Madhouse” by composer Rene Orth and playwright Hannah Moscovitch. This year’s festival, which runs until October 1st, also showcases Verdi’s “Simon Boccanegra” and tenor Karim Sulayman’s “Unholy Wars”, as well as recitals at the prestigious Academy of Vocal Arts and Curtis Institute of Music.
The opera, composed by Orth, centers around the story of Nellie Bly, a renowned journalist who, in 1887, went undercover as a patient in an all-female asylum on Blackwell’s Island in New York City. Bly’s exposé shed light on the inhumane conditions prevailing in the asylum. By incorporating Bly’s experience into the opera, Orth successfully analyzes the opera culture itself, shedding light on the mistreatment often faced by women both historically and in present times.
Orth’s “10 Days” effectively questions the notion of madness, its sufferers, and what constitutes a “cure”. The libretto, written by Moscovitch, cleverly plays with the chronology of the story, starting from the end of Bly’s stay and moving backward to her arrival at the asylum. Orth’s innovative score creates two distinct “sound worlds”, gradually merging them to evoke the unstable nature of the characters and their surroundings. The haunting chorus of nine patients blurs the line between reality and delusion.
The stage direction and language of the libretto add to the disorienting effect of the opera. The music, conducted by Daniela Candillari, seamlessly shifts between familiar, comforting melodies and unsettling dissonance. The combination of acoustic instruments and electronic effects immerses the audience in the turmoil and confusion experienced by the characters.
The talented cast brings the characters to life with exceptional acting abilities. Kiera Duffy delivers a powerful performance as Nellie Bly, skillfully portraying her journey from instability to stability. Raehann Bryce-Davis impressively captures the depth of Lizzie’s brokenness in her monosyllabic murmurings. Will Liverman’s portrayal of Dr. Josiah Blackwell is menacing and manipulative, while Lauren Pearl shines as the head nurse with her strong and captivating presence.
The minimalist set design by Andrew Lieberman, with its central cylindrical structure, evokes a sense of confinement and psychological depth. Director Joanna Settle’s staging transforms the single corridor into a labyrinth, pulling the audience towards the characters and their unsettling experiences.
Orth’s opera is a timely and thought-provoking work that speaks to the prevalent issues faced by women today. While the opera tradition often features women on the brink of madness, Bly’s story highlights the dismissive and abusive treatment faced by women who have experienced trauma. “10 Days in a Madhouse” provides a stunning and immersive perspective on this topic, and Orth deserves commendation for creating such an impactful and relevant opera.
Experience the power of “10 Days in a Madhouse” at Opera Philadelphia’s Festival O23, running until September 30th. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable cultural event.
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