A Night of Questions at the Opera: Faust

I like that modern art causes me to stop and ask questions - to pause in the midst of the familiar and have to deal with something very unfamiliar. It is in this context that I enjoyed Austin Lyric Opera’s performance of Faust this past week. Unfortunately, I am uncertain if the modern interpretation by Bernard Uzan truly worked. I like leaving modern art with questions, but Faust is supposed to provide very clear answers about good versus evil and I admit I’m still baffled almost a week later.

Photography by Mark Matson. Posted at Long Center

First and foremost, I must commend the entire crew: The acting, the singing, and the sets were superb! The scene in the insane asylum will most likely haunt my dreams for years to come – it was so vivid and terrifying!

The place where I am left confused and I believe the opera was lacking is in the interpretation and understanding of Faust. I admire anyone who tackles a new rendition of an old production, but I’m not entirely convinced this one hit the mark. I fully agree with Bernard Uzan that “the quest for Faust doesn't belong to a specific time” and that “the story belongs to humanity” outside of time, but I believe it needs a different reboot.

The message of Faust got muddled. My opera companion commented with a very poignant remark as we were walking home from the opera Thursday night that, “they were very good at doing the bad, but not so good at the good.” And I agree. In contemplating the end scene in which Mephistopheles is supposed to be turned away by the words “Christ es ressuscite!” there was no clear victory of the good over evil. Mephistopheles got to turn and wheel Faust away – Marguerite had clearly broken free and was saved, but it became more about her personal salvation than the salvation of mankind and the victory of ALL good over evil.

I would love to hear other people’s feedback on what they thought. Perhaps I’m still trying to wrap my mind around a new interpretation? It felt very choppy, and perhaps that is keeping me from piecing details together? Or perhaps I've hit on something that others felt as well? In any case, I would greatly enjoy entering into dialogue with others about the opera and I thank Austin Lyric Opera for presenting an opera that posed questions.

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What You're Missing This Week That You Didn't Know You Were Missing

State Library of New South
Wales Collection via Flickr

Regulars of this blog & friends of mine already know how much I adore Austin Lyric Opera. They did a magnificent job with Pagliacci and Marriage of Figaro. The production of Marriage of Figaro in particular stole my heart for weeks with joyous remembrances. As such I am incredibly excited for the performance of Faust this week.

Gounod's Faust tells the tale of an elderly scholar, a young woman, and the Devil in the midst of a struggle of good versus evil.

The folks at Austin Lyric Opera have yet to disappoint and I cannot endorse this performance enough. Have I seen it? No. But I have seen what these folks are capable of and they can send shivers down your spine with heart wrenching arias and bring you to tears through laughter with witty word play and situational sung humor.

Trust me. You don't want to miss seeing Mephistopheles strut his bass-baritone-wielding self across the stage.



Tickets are still on sale & this close to the opening night they have some fantastic deals. Go here now to reserve your spot in the Devil's audience.

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What You Don't Want to Miss: Austin Lyric Opera's Marriage of Figaro

I admit that I'm new to the opera scene in Austin. I've only experienced two other productions by Austin Lyric Opera, but I can merrily admit that I'm in. Hook, line, & sinker. I also freely admit that I listen to opera music, but never as a complete opera. I have those "best of" opera albums that highlight the best arias. So, basically what I'm saying here is that I go into these operas blind. I know the basic story, but the music hits me with the full force of newness.

Marriage of Figaro opened last night, Thursday January 31st at the Long Center. Go. Just drop your previous plans for this weekend, pick a day, and go. Go. Go. Go!

I walked to the Long Center from slightly north on a beautiful Austin night. Opera semi-veteran tip: walk. The parking garage is always packed & it's difficult to leave. Eat dinner downtown and wander the streets to the Long Center. You won't be disappointed when you get to experience a beautiful sunset and scenery.

Those who are familiar with the opera will know Marriage of Figaro is a comedy. I knew this. I didn't know that the humor was mainly situational and witty. The facial expressions and body language are key elements of the opera and the cast did an excellent job delivering. The music is from Mozart, the lyrics are well sung, the dramatic flair on stage is apropos, the set is crafted beautifully, and it's highly entertaining. I cannot recommend it enough & tickets are still available!

Get thee to the opera!

View from the Long Center, Austin, TX

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