Lyric Theatre, QPAC
June 22, 2018

The Merry Widow, the operetta by Austro-Hungarian composer Franz Lehár, still flourishes on the world’s stages with its romantic themes, bubbly hedonism, popular arias and lilting rhythm. No expense was spared on the lavish costumes fashioned from silks embellished with feathers, beads and jewels in this frothy production with its lure of easy-on-the ear and eye escapism. After all, Australian State Opera Companies pooled resources in a bid to stage this classic flamboyantly.

David Hobson and Natalie Christie Peluso. Photograph © Stephanie Do Rozario

But all that glitters is not gold. Costume Designer Jennifer Irwin’s art deco, low-waisted frocks were sumptuous. Fashioned from deluxe fabrics, beaded glittery trim and period bling, the gorgeous look kept on giving with such a vast presence on stage. But it takes more than fashion, sophisticated lighting design by Damien Cooper and an admirable art deco set by Michael Scott-Mitchell to fire a production.

Star-soloists, Opera Q’s Chorus, Queensland Symphony Orchestra and conductor Vanessa Scammell all contributed efficiently to this razzle-dazzle production by acclaimed director and choreographer Graeme Murphy, yet it failed to sizzle and scorch despite a high-kicking, troupe of saucy, can can dancers,...