THE TURN OF THE SCREW
Dorothy Chandler Pavillion
Reviewed by Carol Kaufman Segal

Benjamin Britten (1913-1976) wrote sixteen operas in 20th Century style. He also invented a new of form of chamber opera, with an orchestra of thirteen, no chorus and a small number of soloists. This is what you will find in his opera, The Turn of the Screw, presented by the LA Opera at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. This opera, in two acts, opens with a prologue and is based on the novel by Henry James., libretto by Myfanwy Piper. It is a Jonathan Kent production imported from England and directed by Francesca Gilpin.

 
A Governess (Patricia Racette) is hired by the guardian of two children Flora (Ashley Emerson) and Miles (Michael Kepler Meo). Because he is constantly occupied and traveling with his business, she is told that she is to handle everything with the children and never to contact him regarding them. The children and housekeeper Mrs. Grose (Ann Murray) welcome her and show her around the house and grounds known as Bly. She is very happy with her new position and fond of the children with whom she seems to have a warm relationship. But then everything changes when suddenly the ghosts appear, first the ghost of the former manservant Peter Quint (William Burden) who "took advantage" of the former governess, Miss Jessel (Tamara Wilson), and also of Miles. Miss Jessel later drowned and Quint died. Quint continues to return, always looking for Miles. When Miss Jessel appears seeking Flora, the Governess realizes that both of the children are in danger. She promises to do everything she can to save them, but whose influence is the greater?

Ms Racette 's performance is filled with emotion. She and Ann Murray both have resounding voices. Ashley Emerson, though an adult, is a sweet, but not so innocent young Flora Michael Kepler Meo, a twelve-year-old boy soprano, has performed the role of Miles before and has an amazing operatic background. His performance is outstanding. Tamara Wilson and William Burden are both haunting enough to make one feel the presence of ghosts! James Conlon conducts the small orchestra with panache. If you enjoy the more modern opera, you will delight in this production.

For information regarding the LA Opera, visit their website at www.laopera.com

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