WA Opera's The Marriage of Figaro Staged at IKEA Innaloo for Perth Festival
In a bold and innovative move, WA Opera has brought Mozart's classic opera The Marriage of Figaro to the unlikely setting of IKEA Innaloo as part of the Perth Festival. This secret production, known as Secret Opera, kept audiences in suspense until the last minute, revealing a two-hour boutique performance with a five-strong cast and a full dinner break.
A Musical Journey Through IKEA
As patrons filed past bold displays and special offers, they were greeted by a clarinet trio performing the overture, setting the stage for a unique operatic experience. The story unfolds among the store's sections, with Figaro, played by baritone Sam Claxton, and Susanna, portrayed by soprano Claire Condipodero, arguing over bedframes like any young couple in IKEA gear.
The plot thickens as manager Mr Albert Conti, performed by baritone Benjamin Del Borrello, attempts to seduce Susanna, leading to a series of comedic and dramatic twists. Mezzo Ruth Burke as Cherubino and soprano Jessica Blunt as Mrs Rosina Conti add depth to the intrigue, with scenes set among Plants and Outdoor Furniture.
Creative Adaptation and Interval Delights
Director Humphrey Bower's slick adaptation, combined with a reduced score by Bayden Adams and IKEA's universal branding, makes this production relatable to audiences worldwide. The interval featured a trip to the Swedish Café for the Meatballs of Figaro, adding a playful touch to the evening.
In the second act, the drama escalates with Figaro hiding in the garden section, fulminating against women, while Rosina and Susanna conspire with pantomime comic timing. The climax sees Rosina wreaking sweet revenge on Conti, leading to a glorious quintet finale that adheres to Mozart's tradition of a happy ending.
Critical Acclaim and Audience Reaction
This production has been praised for its absurd yet captivating blend of opera and retail, earning four stars for its creative execution. The cast maintained their cool through scenes of bluff and betrayal, delivering a performance that soared in sentiment and left audiences delighted.
Overall, WA Opera's staging of The Marriage of Figaro at IKEA Innaloo showcases how classical art can thrive in unconventional spaces, offering a fresh and engaging experience for Perth Festival attendees.
