In the pivotal role of Levko, tenor Michael Hendrick was outstanding, impressive for both his attractive, ample sound and convincing Slavic style.

Observed in the flattering light of Sarasota’s captivating production, directed by Darko Tresnjak, in settings designed by David P. Gordon and costumes by Howard Tvsi Kaplan, Rimsky-Korsakov’s May Night (1880) had the requisite rustic Russian flavor and never patronized the play’s earthy, easy-going, fantastic argument. The charm and force of the music compensated for several meandering turns in the opera’s dramatic road. In the pivotal role of Levko, tenor Michael Hendrick was outstanding, impressive for both his attractive, ample sound and convincing Slavic style. Amy Ellen Anderson was an appealing Hanna, the object of Levko’s affections, and the other villagers were convincingly portrayed. The chorus was vibrant, and conductor Valery Ryvkin maintained a good ensemble and led with idiomatic flair.

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by C.J. Luten

Opera Canada