The Lowry, Salford – 16 November 2019
Reviewed by Angelos Spantideas
5*****
A spectacular opera with a theme that after all these years from its making is still relevant and important in the midst of another refugee crisis. The fear of the “other people”, the sense of responsibility and the fight against temptation are heavily discussed, with Nicky Spence’s versatile performance as Manolios succeeding at portraying being human with flaws and weaknesses in the pursuit of achieving god-like sensibility.
The controversy of disturbing the public order in attempt to help other people is underlined, with the people in power cling to their positions of power in fear of losing them. Authority, as portrayed by the local governing individuals, such as the local priest Grigoris, Stephen Gadd, is influencing the collective behaviour of everyday people and compromise the freedom of speech and the expression of ideas which conflict their interests.
The performance of John Savournin as the priest who leads the refugees is vital to the play, as he was able to show the desperation of people who have been routed out of their homes and cannot find compassion or support from their fellow Greeks.
Overall a great opera with a message that is conveyed accurately by an amazing cast. The music and singing complement it and engage the audience throughout the duration of the opera with performances that makes the spectator empathise with the actors.