Delibes: Lakmé

Overview

Starring the exquisite coloratura soprano Emma Matthews as the innocent girl priestess Lakmé, and superb tenor Aldo Di Toro as the love-struck Gerald, the story tackles religion and cross-cultural love against a backdrop of British rule in India in the mid-19th century. French conductor Emmanuel Joel-Hornak brings out the full depth of the lush, dramatic score, with familiar high points being the beautiful renditions of the well-known Flower duet and Bell Song. Dominica Matthews adds her rich voice as Mallika and Stephen Bennett is darkly dominating as Brahmin priest Nilakantha, Lakmés father, while Roxane Hislop is a consumate Mistress Bentson. Set and costume designs by Mark Thompson fill the stage with rich colour, atmosphere and exoticism, complemented by Nigel Levings warm lighting. This restudied production, originally conceived by Adam Cook, is skilfully directed by Roger Hodgman.

Cast

Emma Matthews

Lakmé

N/A

Aldo Di Toro

Gerald

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Stephen Bennett

Nilakantha

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Dominica Matthews

Mallika

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Edomond Choo

Jadji

N/A

Luke Gabbedy

Frederick

N/A

Roxane Hislop

Mistress Bentson

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Jane Parkin

Elene

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Angela Brun

Rose

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Benjamin Rasheed

Domben

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Nara Lee

Chinese Merchant

N/A

Adrian Tamburini

Kuravar