‘Così fan Tutte’ at the Los Angeles Opera: A Deep Dive into Mozart’s Classic
Overview of the Opera
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s “Così fan Tutte,” a comic opera that challenges social norms and delves into the human condition, recently opened at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. Conducted by James Conlon, this production invites audiences to contemplate its strikingly cynical characters amidst Mozart’s musical brilliance.
Thematic Significance
Critics have noted the opera’s focus on present experiences, with Edward Said highlighting the absence of memory and loyalties in favor of immediate concerns. Conlon refers to “Così” as a work steeped more in materialism than spirituality, emphasizing its relevance to contemporary audiences.
Production Elements
Directed posthumously by Michael Cavanagh and adapted by Shawna Lucey, this latest staging takes place in a lavish East Coast country club set in the late 1930s. The characters embody a farcical take on materialism that, while visually engaging, raises questions about their depth and agency.
Character Exploration
The plot centers on two engaged couples whose relationships are tested by the manipulations of the philosopher Don Alfonso. As he orchestrates a scheme to test the fidelity of the sisters, the narrative reveals the vulnerabilities inherent in romantic attachments. “Così fan tutte,” meaning “thus do all [women],” underscores a societal critique of gender and trust.
Musical Interpretation
Mozart’s score provides a profound emotional landscape that transcends the superficiality of the characters. The music serves as a guide to understanding the actors’ complex emotions and the nature of human existence. Notably, the original question of whether the characters can evolve remains unanswered, adding to the opera’s intrigue.
Performance Highlights
The Los Angeles production features notable performances from the cast. Soprano Erica Petrocelli delivers a powerful portrayal of Fiordiligi, while mezzo-soprano Rihab Chaieb brings charm to Dorabella. The male leads, Anthony León (Ferrando) and Justin Austin (Guglielmo), showcase their vocal prowess as they navigate the emotional turmoil presented by Don Alfonso’s scheme.
Legacy and Dedication
This iteration of “Così fan Tutte” is dedicated to Alice Coulombe, a foundational board member of the opera, and Robert Fitzpatrick, who played a pivotal role in launching the L.A. Opera. The production stands as a testament to the opera’s lasting influence within the cultural fabric of Los Angeles.
Performance Details
Where: Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, 135 Grand Ave., Los Angeles
When: Through March 30
Tickets: $49-$400
Running Time: Approximately 3.5 hours (including one intermission)
Info: laopera.org
