By Allison Dixon
Daily Bruin Contributor
Many people avoid opera because of the language barriers and
melodramatic love stories. L.A. Opera’s “Billy
Budd” escapes this stereotype, however. Performed entirely in
English and absent of any sappy romance, “Billy Budd”
is not your usual opera.
Benjamin Britten’s operatic adaptation of Herman
Melville’s novel “Billy Budd” brings the powerful
sea tale to the stage in a Los Angeles Opera production, running
through June 17.
“Billy Budd” is the story of an enthusiastic but
naive sailor who is loved by all his fellow shipmates, except one.
The master-at-arms on the ship is threatened by Budd’s
congeniality which he wrongly perceives as the desire to start a
mutiny. To prevent an uprising, he sets about trying to provoke
Budd into doing something that would earn him an execution.
The L.A. Opera has a reputation for attracting some of the best
talent in the world and this production is no exception. The
dramatic story is sung by an all-male cast and staged on a
high-tech set. The entire cast’s singing is very impressive
with especially notable performances given by Rodney Gilfry (Billy
Budd), Robert Tear (Captain Vere), Louis Lebherz (Lieutenant
Ratcliffe) and Richard Stilwell (Mr. Redburn).
These cast members combine powerful singing and acting to give
emotionally charged performances. UCLA student Andrew Ahlquist
makes his mainstage debut, beautifully singing the all-too-brief
role of the Novice’s friend.
A great deal of talent also worked behind the scenes on
“Billy Budd.” Alison Chitty designed both the costumes
and the sets for the production. The costumes contributed to the
early 19th-century feel of the show, complimented by the scenic
design.
The modern, static set consists of blue fabric, giving the
effect of the ocean, surrounding a central platform. The
diamond-shaped platform, which functions as the ship’s deck,
is raised and lowered throughout the performance allowing certain
scenes to take place below deck when the platform is raised. Some
of the most visually impressive scenes take place with action both
below and on the deck. In addition, the deck features a main mast
and rigging on which the actors climb, making a few scenes occur on
three different stage levels.
Another striking effect happens during the closing scene of the
show where Captain Vere is reflecting on the course of events that
has occurred as he stands in front of a sheer screen. Behind the
screen, yet still visible, is Budd hanging from a noose above a
crowd of his shipmates. This moving ending leaves an indelible
impression on the audience.
Although this haunting production does contain violence and some
unpleasant themes that may be inappropriate for young children, it
remains an easy to follow, serious opera. “Billy Budd”
is a good choice for fans of classic literature because it brings
the novel to life onstage with great singing, music and sets.
OPERA: “Billy Budd” plays at the Dorothy Chandler
Pavilion through June 17. Prices range from $27-146. Student and
senior rush tickets go on sale one hour before the show and are $20
with student ID. For information or reservations call the L.A.
Opera at (213) 972-8001.