The Revival of “The Critic” at Wexford Festival Opera
In a delightful blend of humor and history, the opera “The Critic” has been revived at the Wexford Festival Opera, showcasing the brilliant adaptation of Richard Brinsley Sheridan’s renowned play by composer Charles Villiers Stanford. Premiering on October 19, 2024, at the O’Reilly Theatre in Ireland, this performance sees the union of two Irish talents, Sheridan and Stanford, both hailing from Dublin but having spent much of their careers in England.
Stanford and Sheridan: Bridging Centuries of Artistry
Charles Villiers Stanford, born in 1852 and deceased in 1924, was a pivotal figure in the world of classical music. A respected music teacher, he played a significant role in founding the Royal College of Music in London and also taught at Trinity College, Cambridge. His prolific career yielded around 200 compositions, including nine operas. His opera “The Critic,” crafted in 1915, is based on Sheridan’s 1779 play of the same name.
Richard Brinsley Sheridan, born in 1751 and deceased in 1816, stands as one of the foremost playwrights of the 18th century, celebrated particularly for his comedies. “The Critic” is a quintessential comedic play, featuring a play-within-a-play structure. It humorously depicts the antics of Mr. Sneer and Mr. Dangle as they observe the rehearsal of “The Spanish Armada,” penned by the pompous Mr. Puff.
The Opera’s Opening: A Satirical Prelude
The opera begins with an engaging dialogue between Mr. Sneer and Mr. Dangle, discussing the literary prowess of Mr. Puff. Sneer describes Puff in unflattering terms, labeling him as an egotistical figure intolerant of criticism. Dangle, despite being a friend of Puff, concedes to Sneer’s assessment. When the conversation shifts to Puff’s latest opera libretto, Sneer openly criticizes it, only for both to change their tune and praise it when Puff enters. Intrigued, Sneer requests to attend a rehearsal of the opera, which Puff readily agrees to, setting the stage for the unfolding drama.
The Comedic Tragedy of “The Spanish Armada”
The opera within the opera, “The Spanish Armada,” unfolds during the 16th-century conflict between England and Spain, under the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. Set in the Tilbury Fort, it features historical figures such as Sir Walter Raleigh and Sir Christopher Hatton. The plot thickens with the capture of Don Ferolo Whiskerandos, the Spanish admiral’s son, who becomes the object of affection for Tilburina, the governor’s daughter. Their forbidden love is complicated by national loyalty, as Tilburina’s father prioritizes duty over love.
Further complications arise when Raleigh and Hatton discover their nieces are also enamored with Don Ferolo. In a fit of jealousy, they attempt to attack him, but are thwarted. The climax escalates as a British officer challenges and kills Don Ferolo, leading Tilburina to madness and her eventual demise by drowning. The opera concludes with a grand naval battle, all the while interrupted by the meddling of Dangle, Sneer, and Puff, who continuously critique and interfere with the performance. Puff, dismayed by the omissions in his script, vows to publish the complete text, with Dangle expressing similar dedication to his music.
The Cast and Performance at Wexford
The Wexford Festival Opera’s rendition of “The Critic” features a stellar cast, including:
– Mr. Puff: Mark Lambert
– Mr. Dangle: Jonathan White
– Mr. Sneer: Arthur Riordan
– Hopkins: Olga Conway
– Tilburina: Ava Dodd
– Don Ferolo Whiskerandos: Dane Suarez
– Governor/Judge: Rory Dunn
– Sir Walter Raleigh: Ben McAteer
– Sir Christopher Hatton: Oliver Johnston
– Earl of Leicester: Gyula Nagy
– Officer/Policeman: Meilir Jones
– Tilburina’s Friend/First Niece: Hannah O’Brien
– Judge’s Wife/Second Niece: Carolyn Holt
– Judge’s Son: Andrew Henley
The Wexford Festival Opera choir and orchestra, under the baton of Ciarán McAuley, brought this production to life, capturing the essence of Stanford’s music and Sheridan’s wit.
A Reflection on “The Critic’s” Timeless Appeal
The revival of “The Critic” at the Wexford Festival Opera serves as a testament to the timeless appeal of both Stanford’s compositions and Sheridan’s sharp humor. The opera’s intricate layers of satire, coupled with its historical context, offer audiences a rich tapestry of entertainment and introspection. The continuous interplay between the characters and the audience’s awareness of the theatricality adds depth to the comedic elements, making it a cherished piece of operatic and theatrical heritage.
In conclusion, “The Critic” remains a vibrant reminder of the enduring power of satire and the arts, bridging centuries and reminding us of the universal follies and triumphs of human nature. The Wexford Festival Opera’s dedication to reviving such masterpieces ensures that these cultural treasures continue to inspire and entertain new generations.