State Opera Poland has turned out to be the best touring opera troupe to
visit Taiwan for a long time. Moreover, they have brought with them two
exceptionally magnetic soloists, recording stars Barbara Kubiak (soprano)
and Boguslaw Szynalski (baritone).
Kubiak has all the dynamism and fire of a Maria Callas, while the towering
Szynalski has the power and emotional force of two singers in one massive
frame. Each combines strongly individual acting talent with a vocal beauty
and power that is rarely heard in Taiwan.
The performances of Nabucco and Il Trovatore are now over, but tomorrow and
Sunday see three performances of Aida with Kubiak in the title role and
Szynalski as Amonasro (on Saturday night and Sunday afternoon only).
These two occasions in particular should not under any circumstances be
missed by opera enthusiasts. Both these outstanding soloists will also
appear in tonight's Verdi Gala, featuring scenes from five works by the
Italian master (the week's three operas, plus Falstaff and Rigoletto).
Additional novelties are that there will be two horses on stage in Aida and
a Verdi lookalike in the Gala. But the company as a whole is a real
discovery. The orchestra, under Ewa Michnik, combines lyricism with clarity,
and the entire ensemble has greatly exceeded expectations.
Plenty of tickets remain available for the performances at the National
Theater: The Verdi Gala starts tonight at 7:30pm. Aida goes on stage
tomorrow at 2:30pm and 7:30pm. On Sunday, Aida will be performed again at
2:30pm. Tickets for the Verdi Gala range from NT$400 to NT$2,400; Aida from
NT$500 to NT$3,000. For reservations call (02) 2343-1361.
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