La Fille du régiment

Laurent Pelly’s fabulously entertaining production of La Fille du règiment was the hottest ticket in town when it was first staged early in 2007. The wonderful combination of great performance, stylish design and irreverently witty production are all ready for this first revival by The Royal Opera, and Bruno Campanella once more conducts Donizetti’s lively and memorable masterpiece to bring out all its undeniable lyrical charm. Many of the original cast return for their roles, so Natalie Dessay will once more be singing fabulous coloratura while ironing the regimental smalls — just one of a host of musical and stage moments from start to finish that has had the audience laughing out loud.

The story has all the elements of comic coincidence and timely discovery as our tomboy heroine is forced into more ladylike circles suitable to her aristocratic birth. But while a judicious society wedding may be the intention of some, this heroine is far too spirited to give in to any wishes but those of her own heart.This is not a revival to miss if you like great singing of virtuosic showpieces, with a star cast and every number beautifully honed to hit its target — sometimes touching, sometimes lyrical, but always a delight. And in this inspired production, it is a truly memorable night of sheer fun with The Royal Opera.

CREDITS

Composer
Gaetano Donizetti

Director
Laurent Pelly

Associate Director
Agathe Mélinand

Dialogue
Agathe Mélinand

Set Designer
Chantal Thomas

Costume designs
Laurent Pelly

Lighting
Joël Adam

Choreography
Laura Scozzi

PERFORMERS

Conductor
Bruno Campanella

Tonio
Juan Diego Flórez
Colin Lee

Marie
Natalie Dessay

Sulpice
Alessandro Corbelli

La Marquise de Berkenfeld
Ann Murray

Hortensius
Donald Maxwell

La Duchesse de Crackentorp
Dawn French