Learning a new language can be hard. When learning a new language, one has to memorize conjugations, learn vocabulary and practice pronunciation. Learning to sing can also be challenging. One has to learn how to hit certain notes, read music and memorize lyrics. In the LSU School of Music’s “Roméo et Juliette,” actors put both together seamlessly.
“Roméo et Juliette” is a French opera that was performed in the Clause L. Shaver Theatre. There were two shows — one Friday, March 27 at 7:30 p.m. and one Sunday at 3:00 p.m. The French lyrics were accompanied by English subtitles projected on a screen.
The show was directed by Dugg McDonough and conducted by Micheal Borowitz. Every little detail of the opera was truly remarkable.
The production used lighting to portray the emotion on stage. The story of “Roméo et Juliette” is quite emotional, and it is important to portray that emotion to the audience. The show used dark lighting for melancholy moments and bright lighting for joyful scenes. The lighting depicted the contrast of love and death taking in the show, bringing the show to life. When love was being portrayed on the stage, the lighting was bright and had warm tones. When death was taking place, the lighting was dark and cool toned.
The actors also brought life to the stage. Even though the whole opera was in French, one could still understand the emotion taking place on stage, even without the subtitles, because of the actors’ powerful performances. The performers did a great job conveying the pain they felt, and their expression while singing in a different language was impressive.
The lyrics were also touching. The storyline is a tragic romance and each French lyric perfectly portrayed the detrimental beauty of Roméo and Juliette’s love. It was moving to hear such poetic language being sung.
The scenery of the show was beautiful. There were painted columns with designs and the stage was lit up with color. Each costume was completely different from one another and varied in color, creating a pleasing image for the eye.
Not to mention how amazing the instrumentals and vocals were. Juliette was hitting notes that were outstanding, and the way her voice blended with Roméo’s was music to my ears. The ensemble was also exciting to watch. Their energy brought life to the stage and their voices were beautiful.
Their blocking on the stage was very intentional and carried the plot along perfectly. Whether it was a fight scene or a death, the way the actors and actresses were placed on the stage got the message across to the audience.
The orchestra also played a pivotal role in the show as it carried it along. I could have sat in my seat for days just listening to the soft strum of the violin accompanied by instruments like the cello, bass, flute, and trumpet. All of the instruments truly blended into a gorgeous sound.
