Anyone who was near Usher Hall last Thursday evening was guaranteed to see flocks of audience members looking moved and invigorated by the concert which had just taken place in the esteemed venue. The Orchestra of Scottish Opera’s Tchaikovsky: Heroines and Heroes pieces together three of Tchaikovsky’s most famous operas—though maybe not as much as the Nutcracker —threaded together by what director Stuart Stratford describes as “complex, fully-realised women who undergo some sort of journey or transformation.” Containing excerpts from The Maid of Orleans, Iolanta, and Eugene Onegin, we transition seamlessly under Stratford’s direction.
The star performance of the night comes from Lauren Fagan. Her vocals shine throughout but particularly in the section focussing on Iolanta, encapsulating both the joy and melancholy of the titular character in the scene. Likewise, Natalia Kutateladze’s confidence and composure radiates in her opening of the night taking upon the role of Joan of Arc in The Maid of Orleans. In her company debut, she evokes great passion that echoes through Usher Hall. Also making his Scottish Opera debut is Robert Lewis, whose performance is captivating. He shines at best alongside Josef Jeongmeen Ahn in Lensky’s Aria and Duel scenes.
However, the beating heart of undoubtedly comes from the over 60-piece orchestra taking over the stage inside the venue led by Anthony Moffat. Whilst their ability and cohesion rings through throughout, the Polonaise — made up of just the orchestra — allows the players to show off the mastery of their talent during the lively dance music. Stuart Stratford’s confidence in his conduction is clear, directing the music with such precision and clarity for the full two hours whilst only taking a break in the first half to talk with the audience about the importance of Tchaikovsky’s operas and genius. In taking this moment to remind us of why we are all here, Stratford takes the focus briefly away from the glamour of the evening to the journey of Tchaikovsky’s music, and his development throughout his career.
I can only stress to anyone — especially any classical or operatic fans — to find yourself tickets to the Scottish Opera’s performances throughout next year, with their calendar boasting many exciting shows including Fujikura and Ross’ world premier of The Great Wave and Mozart’s Last Three Symphonies.
Photo of Lauren Fagan provided by the Scottish Opera as press material.