The Elixir of Love” is a charming bit of opera fluff that is especially rewarding when done well. Presented by Los Angeles Opera as the first production of the season, the Donizetti comedy was perfect in every way, starting with the singers.
Although two of the original members of the cast had to cancel because of medical problems, the replacements could not have been much better. Giuseppe Filianoti took over for Rolando Villazon, who was slated to sing the tenor role of Nemorino. Filianoti was a delight, both as actor and singer, and came through with a thrilling rendition of the famous “Una Furtiva Lacrima.” Ruggero Raimondo, the famous bass, had to bow out at the last minute but Giorgio Caoduro was up to the task as the charlatan, Doctor Dulcamara.
However, the star of the production was Nino Machaidze, making her debut with the company and exhibiting a scintillating soprano voice. She was girlish and flirty as the literate Adina, and handled the lovely arias with style. The reliable baritone Nathan Gunn was available as scheduled and was an amusing Sergeant Belcore who, despite the phony eye patch, has an eye for the girls.
The plot, such as it is, revolves around the magic potion sold to Nemorino by the quack. He is told that once he drinks the elixir (actually wine), Adina will fall in love with him.
It’s all in good fun, especially with the bucolic set provided by Johan Engels. Since this is a rustic affair, the singers perform in a very authentic looking barn, with hoists and carts for the bales of hay. Everything works flawlessly with the talented Stephen Lawless as the director.
The Los Angeles Opera Orchestra, under director James Conlon, does justice to the beautiful music .