NZ Opera: Kátya Kabanová

Overview

In the final production of their 2018 season, New Zealand Opera are going full Feminine Mystique with Kátya Kabanová.

The titular character, poor old Katya, is stuck in a loveless marriage, complete with a mother-in-law who just won't leave her alone. There's a whole lot of misery and emotion bubbling under the surface of this cinematic production, where the white-picket-fence dream is the perfect backdrop. When the depressed and hopeless Katya falls for another fella, she realises the trappings of 1950s suburbia aren't for her, and struggles to find her morsel of happiness and peace in a miserable context.

The stunning staging makes it seem a bit like you're at the movies, and the signing is consistently flawless. There are also a few playful and bright moments that contrast against the oppressive atmosphere.

Kátya Kabanová is on for four nights at the beautiful St James Theatre, with tickets starting from a bargain $45.

Image: ambientlightblog