THE LOWRY THEATRE, SALFORD – SATURDAY 15TH MARCH 2025
REVIEWED BY MIA BOWEN
4****
Whenever I hear that Opera North is coming to Salford, I promptly check which operas are touring to secure a seat for myself. I’ve attended several Opera North performances, and each time I leave feeling deeply moved by the productions. On my previous visit I had the pleasure of watching The Magic Flute, which was a truly delightful evening. Last night, however, I experienced Wagner’s The Flying Dutchman for the first time.
It was truly delightful to observe that as I settled into my seat, I was surrounded by newcomers to opera. Each of their seats was adorned with a ‘Try It On’ welcome gift. Opera North offers an excellent initiative that allows first-time opera attendees to experience live productions at a discounted ticket price and from excellent seats.
Just before production commenced, it was noted that in 2018, Opera North became the first opera company in the UK to be granted Theatre of Sanctuary status, with reaccreditation achieved in 2022. Opera North is dedicated to ensuring that everyone can experience the transformative benefits of music and performance by enhancing accessibility to the arts. This significant achievement acknowledges the efforts made by organisations to create an inclusive environment for refugees and those seeking sanctuary in the city.
The storyline of “The Flying Dutchman” is inspired by an ancient Dutch legend about a ghost ship, as well as Wagner’s own harrowing experience during a stormy voyage on the North Sea. However, Annabel Arden presents a fresh interpretation by modernising the narrative. She draws parallels between the plight of the Dutchman and the experiences of countless asylum seekers who embark on dangerous journeys to the UK in search of safety and a better life. At the beginning of each act, the recorded voices of real refugees resonate from the sound system, recounting their distressing tales of fear and uncertainty as they navigate perilous journeys on small boats in pursuit of asylum.
The story follows the captain of a ghostly ship, the Dutchman, represented by baritone Robert Hayward, who is cursed to wander the seas for eternity. Every seven years, however, he is granted the opportunity to step onto land in search of a woman whose steadfast loyalty can break the curse and redeem his soul. During his journey, he encounters Daland, portrayed by bass Clive Bayley, a powerful and influential man, who introduces the Dutchman to his only daughter, Senta, played by Layla Claire. The Dutchman offers Daland money in exchange for Senta’s hand in marriage. Yet, Senta is instantly captivated by the Dutchman, igniting feelings of distress in Erik, portrayed by tenor Edgaras Montvidas, who is in love with her. As Senta and the Dutchman finally meet, a tense and fragile connection begins to form between them.
The performance from each of them was remarkable, and the production as a whole was both admirable and thought-provoking. Under Garry Walker, the Orchestra of Opera North displayed a vibrant and dramatic performance. The full power of the Chorus of Opera North is truly something to be cherished.