Antonio Pappano's Musical Farewell at Royal Opera
- Antonio Pappano bids farewell to the Royal Opera with a thrilling revival of Giordano's French Revolution opera.
- The final production of Pappano's tenure as music director showcases Jonas Kaufmann and Sondra Radvanovsky in lead roles.
- The gaudy 1896 drama becomes a memorable swansong for Covent Garden's great music director.
Antonio Pappano's last show as the Royal Opera's music director is a revival of David McVicar's 2015 production of Andrea Chénier by Umberto Giordano. The story is set during the French Revolution and explores desire and fanaticism. The emotions are intense and the music is powerful. The performance is filled with passion and political fervor, showing the relationship between revolutionary leaders and lovers. The music captures the essence of the era, with moments of elegance and exhilaration. Jonas Kaufmann plays the lead role of Andrea Chénier, showcasing his talent despite some strain in his voice. The supporting cast, including Sondra Radvanovsky and Amartuvshin Enkhbat, deliver strong performances. The production is rich in historical detail and creates a captivating atmosphere. Antonio Pappano has been the music director of the Royal Opera for 22 years, supporting great singers and nurturing talent. While some may find the opera Andrea Chénier lacking in substance, Pappano's dedication to showcasing top singers shines through. The orchestra's quality under his direction elevates the performance, making the music come alive.