A Fun Night at the Opera

Their voices reached to the back of the auditorium – and probably into other theatres. One wonders if plastic cups are given out because glass might shatter. Opera Locos is a blast – full of sound and fast and furious comedy. It’s a romp through opera’s greatest hits, which has something for the uninitiated as well as aficionados. There are plenty of high notes – but no bum notes.

It would be churlish to try and pick out one cast member who shone. They all dazzled, working well together and when the spotlight rested on them solely. The different performances were sweet, comedic, powerful and touching – showcasing the best that opera has to offer.

The set is minimalistic, but counterpointed by some wonderfully dramatic costumes. Opera Locos is fit for all ages – and at times the audience becomes part of the show. The company, Yllana should be congratulated for their smarts and infectious love and knowledge of opera.

The plot and premise are secondary to putting the songs at the forefront of things. There are a couple of love stories which bind the show together. The cast clearly enjoy themselves and also their interactions with the audience. The classically trained singers also have fun in belting out snippets of modern songs too and channelling the likes of Mika, Michael Jackson and Kate Bush.

Opera is often associated with tragedy, but the only thing tragic about this show is that it had to end.

The Opera Locos is on at the The Peacock Theatre, Sadler’s Wells now. Richard Foreman is a bestselling author.