If theatrical gimmickry must be added to a performance of classical music, at least it should enhance rather than distract. Berlioz’s “Symphonie Fantastique,” performed at Walt Disney Concert Hall last weekend, was placed in the hands of a group called Complicite, and there were so many visuals, it was almost impossible to concentrate on the music.
Simon McBurney, the group’s director, started the evening with a monologue about what seemed to be the history of the world dating back to Berlioz’s birth year in 1803. A transparent scrim came down in front of the orchestra and showed various images that added nothing to the enjoyment of the music. At one point, several members of the orchestra stood up, removed their black jackets and made various hand movements. Conductor Esa-Pekka Salonen had to sneak up to the podium from the side so as not to take the spotlight from McBurney. Somehow the orchestra members managed to play brilliantly.
This was my third visit to the spectacular Walt Disney Concert Hall and I must admit that the sound is quite special. Our first concert was a splendid rendition of Haydn’s “The Creation” with Salonen conducting and the Los Angeles Master Chorale adding its stirring voice. Another concert, dynamic and exciting, featured Zubin Mehta leading the orchestra in Beethoven’s Chorale (9th) Symphony.
The new auditorium served the performers well.