In the enchanting world of Saratoga Springs, Opera Saratoga presented a mesmerizing production of “Don Pasquale” at Universal Preservation Hall. With a cast of only four characters, the intensity and drama were palpable throughout. Each performer exhibited a remarkable ability to convey larger-than-life emotions through their vocal performances, though the overall effort fell slightly short.
Donizetti’s score exudes a whimsical charm and frenetic pace, but the comedic elements felt forced, relying heavily on exaggerated acting, props, and costumes. One particular low point was the clerk’s arrival as a beach bum wearing a judge’s powdered wig. Despite this, the audience erupted in laughter, suggesting that perhaps I was taking things too seriously.
It was undeniably delightful to witness Norina, portrayed as a maid, singing into a lime green toilet brush as if it were a microphone. Equally clever was the use of golf irons by Pasquale and Malatesta, transforming their interactions into a fencing-like spectacle.
In the program, director Meaghan Deiter compares the opera to a rom-com, but it evoked thoughts of reality TV. Similar to opera, reality TV thrives on performative emotional expressions. The stark daytime lighting by Anshuman Bhatia further emphasized this comparison to television.
Returning to the singers, Andy Papas, as Don Pasquale, exuded likability and sympathy. His facial expressions remained consistently tense, but his vocal performance was deeply ingrained. Trevor Haumschilt-Rocha, as Dr. Malatesta, matched Pasquale’s confident and robust Italian singing. Towards the end, the two shared a delightful duet of song and dance, showcasing their chemistry. Norina, portrayed by Haley Whitney, fully embraced her vocal power after entering a sham marriage. It is possible that she was not sufficiently warmed up for her Cavatina in Act I, but she still managed to convey a coquettish aura in her pink maid costume.
Randy Ho, in the role of Ernesto, showcased agility and a pure, powerful tenor voice. However, the character’s melancholy and longing for connection limited his emotional range. Nonetheless, he shone brightly during the garden duet with Norina.
The standout stage element was Dr. Malatesta’s costume, complete with a manbun and earth-toned clothing adorned with beaded jewelry and moccasins. This visually complemented his calming of Pasquale’s anxieties through acupuncture.
As a freelance writer based in Troy, I can confidently attest to the captivating experience offered by Opera Saratoga’s production of “Don Pasquale.”
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