Puccini's immortal classic finally makes it to the Philippine stage with the Philippine Opera Company's production of La Boheme. I was fortunate enough to watch portions of the dress rehearsal last Wednesday evening, courtesy of Ms. Lorna Lopez and Ms Karla Gutierrez of the POC.
I arrived at the onset of Act III when Mimi, in her touching aria Addio, senza rancor bids Rodolfo farewell. This number quickly becomes a heartbreaking duet between the lovers and finally turns into a marvelous quartet as Marcello and Musetta bring their quarrel outdoors. The stunning contrast created between the warring couple and the sentimental one in an ensemble number is just marvelous: it is without doubt, one of the finest quartets in all of Italian opera. I just hope that next time, the performers would keep this in mind.
Also, I couldn't stifle a smile when Colline in a touching aria, bids farewell to his overcoat, which he goes out to sell.
I missed out on Che gelida manina and Mi chiamano Mimi in Act I, two of the most beloved arias for tenor and soprano as well as the big crowd scene in Act II that culminates in Musetta's highly popular Waltz.
From what I have seen so far, I'm sure the production is all worth the trouble with competent performers as well as an inspired conducting from Helen Quach. I'm pretty sure the orchestra will rise up to the challenge during the regular run. Performances on Friday through Sunday this week at the CCP.
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