The Merry Widow Review

The Lowry, Salford – until 17th November 2018.

Reviewed by Joseph Everton

5*****

Like an early 20th century soap opera, Giles Havergal’s glamorous production of Lehar’s The Merry Widow waltzed into the Lowry last night and brought the financially insecure Balkan region of Pontevedro to life. A witty production, full of glitz, sparkle and more than a nod towards suffragism and women’s rights, this English adaptation of The Merry Widow, translated by Kit Hesketh-Harvey, breathed new life into a well-loved story.

Opulently clothed, glistening under the lights, bathed in a pink and gold hue, Hanna Glawari (Katie Bird) sang the story of an incredibly wealthy widow, surrounded by suitors who are determined to take control of her sensational fortune. Glawari spurns their advances with the caustic wit of a farmer’s daughter. We learn that without her fortune, Pontevedro would collapse and so, in order to prevent her inheritance falling into the hands of the French, party-boy and drunkard Count Danilo is tasked by his Godfather, Baron Zeta (Geoffrey Dolton), to win her heart and marry her. However, it soon becomes clear that the couple have a history.

There were a number of highlights, with Katie Bird’s rendition of ‘Vilja’ a stand-out moment of beauty. The choreography by Stuart Hopps and associate, Tim Claydon, combined a range of European dance styles with a tumbling display of acrobatics. De Lang’s portrayal of the lovable rogue, Danilo, was amusing and endearing.

Whilst the story is beset with adultery, greed and lies, Opera North’s The Merry Widow manages to be funny, charming and brilliantly entertaining. You can see it at the Lowry until Saturday 17th November.