Review: Dalinda by Gaetano Donizetti – Opera UCT at the Baxter Theatre, 6th September 2024

Here’s a date night idea that truly exceeded all expectations: Opera UCT’s mesmerising production of Dalinda by Gaetano Donizetti at the Baxter Theatre on the 6th of September, 2024. This world premiere was nothing short of extraordinary, showcasing a rare opportunity to witness a lost operatic gem brought back to life in the most stunning way possible. It was an evening of pure magic, where history, art, and talent combined to deliver an unforgettable experience for the packed, sold-out audience.

Under the exceptional direction of renowned Italian director William Costabile Cisco, Dalinda was not only a masterclass in opera but a triumph for both Opera UCT and South Africa's operatic community. The intricate costumes, designed by Letiticia Parvoleta Ivanova, were nothing short of spectacular, each one meticulously crafted to transport the audience to the 19th century while retaining a fresh, modern appeal. Visually, the production was breathtaking, and musically, it was pure bliss.

The talented UCT Opera students, led by Professor Jeremy Silver, delivered powerful performances that resonated with the audience on a deeply emotional level. The vocal prowess of the singers was world-class, and their ability to convey the complex emotions of Donizetti’s characters was exceptional. From the delicate arias to the rousing ensemble pieces, the performers captivated the audience with their command of both the music and the stage. It was clear that these young artists are destined for greatness on the international opera scene.

Professor Silver, who has been instrumental in raising Opera UCT’s profile as a leading institution, once again proved why the school is considered one of the top opera training grounds in the world. His vision for Opera UCT as a production house that nurtures talent and produces world-firsts is realised in Dalinda, which is the cornerstone of their 2024 season. The seamless collaboration between students and international professionals, such as Cisco and Ivanova, highlighted the global reach and relevance of Opera UCT.

The reimagined Dalinda, which had been lost for centuries, made its triumphant debut in South Africa, and the importance of this production cannot be overstated. It’s a major accomplishment for Opera UCT to bring such a significant work to the stage, marking another milestone in their ever-growing legacy. This production also speaks volumes about the calibre of UCT’s training programme, which equips its students to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the best performers in the world.

The atmosphere in the Baxter Theatre was electric, with the audience visibly moved by the sheer brilliance of the show. From the moment the curtain rose, we were swept away into the world of Dalinda, a world of intricate storytelling, rich music, and powerful emotions. Each performer brought their character to life with such conviction that the audience couldn’t help but be drawn into the drama unfolding on stage. The production was the perfect balance of technical precision and raw emotion, a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved.

Opera UCT’s commitment to excellence was evident in every detail, from the flawless performances to the seamless production. This is opera at its finest, and it’s heartening to see such an important cultural institution flourishing in Cape Town. As Professor Silver teased during the performance, there’s so much more to look forward to in Opera UCT’s 2024 season, including more world-class productions and exciting collaborations with international artists.

If you haven’t yet experienced an Opera UCT production, now is the time to do so. Their staging of Dalinda was a masterclass in operatic storytelling, a truly world-class experience that left the audience in awe. This was more than just a show—it was an event that showcased the incredible talent coming out of UCT and the creative vision behind their work. We can’t wait to see what’s next, and if this is any indication of what’s to come, we are in for a thrilling year ahead.

Keep an eye on Opera UCT’s calendar, as there are plenty more shows to look forward to, and if you missed Dalinda, you’ll want to make sure you don’t miss the next one. It’s safe to say that the future of opera in South Africa is in very good hands.