Read review by Christopher Jackman
I saw the production of the Messiah last Friday and found it exquisite. Some of the reviews I read were mixed but I was delighted with the whole event. At no point did I feel that the dramatised action clashed with the music (unlike some recent opera productions I have seen), in fact both music and dramatisation enhanced each other. The annunciation was delightfully and tastefully done as was the crucifixion and the final act was a triumph with 'I know my redeemer liveth' and 'the trumpet shall sound' exactly right. Who ever had the idea of the small child shaking hands with the risen was inspired!
So a big 'Well done' to Deborah Warner and the whole team. Please do more of the same. The visual imagery was excellent and the total action delightfully understated as befits the theme. Everything was said, yet said so well that nothing grated. I came out skipping and have been talking about it to anyone who will listen ever since!
