Martin Kusej's cult-cum-dictatorship interpretation of Idomeneo was roundly booed on its opening night. But although much of it is rather silly - Arbace wanders around, inexplicably, with an accordion - much of it is rather good. It's thought-provoking to have the chorus singing not in admiration of Idomeneo but compelled by force to do so. And in an opera where some characters - such as Idomeneo - can seem wooden, that's never the case.
Whatever the director's quirks, musically this is a fine production led by Marc Minkowski in the pit. Matthew Polenzani sings the title role with elan and Sophie Bevan's Ilia is compelling. But Malin Byström's Elletra steals the show. Gripping acting and a truly magnificent voice.
But how on earth Franco Fagioli as Idamante was ever engaged is a mystery - quite the worst voice I have ever heard on this stage.
