Lismore is one of the most beautiful villages in Ireland and it had
adorned itself in all its finery for the Festival. The sun shone and the
beautiful Castle so old and yet so dignified with all the marks of past
centuries proudly displayed, stood firmly overlooking the small town
and seemed to give it a special benediction. The Opera commenced
at the extremely late hour of 8.30 p.m.by which time the sun was
slowly sinking in the west and a very cool breeze began to blow on
all the visitors dressed in rather light clothing. The performance was
housed in the old stables of the castle,which created a very realistic
and unusual setting for the opera and a small but very efficient
orchestra accompanied the singers, all of whom did well. But I have
no hesitation in saying that the musical highlight of the evening was
Anthony's exquisite singing of the most difficult and demanding aria
"Il mio tesoro" which would grace the stage of any opera house in the
world. I was immensely proud of him, and despite the chill winds that
our clothing were no protection against, as we walked in the cold but
beautiful castle gardens, I wouldn't have missed it for the world.
Patrick
DON GIOVANNI
LISMORE MUSIC FESTIVAL
JUNE 4 and 5, 2011
REVIEW THANKS TO PATRICK HEALY
Picture by LMF
