American Record Guide review of Perth Elektra by Robert Markow just appeared in latest magazine online. Key take-aways from the review:

Matthew Lutton’s production overall was praised; “persuasive and compelling.”

Of the women, Elizabeth Campbell’s Klytemnestra considered “the best developed” character.  Eva Johanasson as Elektra “hurled forth her lines with gleaming brilliance and power, but there was little color or nuance; the character remained two dimensional.” Orla Boylan’s Chrysothemis was “slightly more lyrical and less forceful, but it was still often difficult to tell the sisters apart.”

Of the men, Richard Greager’s Aegisth was best; “mincing, foppish delivery was entirely appropriate for Aegisth,” In contrast, Daniel Sumegi’s Orestes not liked; “pinched, tremulous voice did him no credit as Orestes.”

As for West Australian Symphony; “a splendid ensemble but it did not realize its potential in Elektra with the lackluster conducting of WAO’s Artistic Director Richard Mills (also one of Australia’s leading composers). Not even the opera’s most volcanic moments, including the recognition scene and Elektra’s dance of triumph, generated much excitement.”

By: James Thompson