Glyndebourne - Cenerentola

MICHAEL DRAKE

> Norwich Theatre Royal

This tale of social justice (and injustice) is a revival of Sir Peter Hall's Glyndebourne Festival production, and its sub-title of 'Goodness Triumphant' proved its point well last evening.

It is one of Rossini's greatest pieces and the GTO Orchestra, conducted by Edward Gardener, gave the music full measure.

Cinderella (Cenerentola) and Angelina in this dramma giocoso is quite magnificent and one would go a long way to hear the performance bettered - her coloratura seemingly effortless and her one pleasure seems to be to sing - to her stepsister's vocal and physical annoyance.

Their father Don Magnifico is a pretty rundown Baron but a strong character and 'hate figure' for the handsome Prince and Valet (disguised as each other) - the former a rather light tenor and not always matched, the latter revelling in his centre stage part.

The man who rights the wrongs, philosopher Alidoro, is always authoritative and there is never a dull or weak moment in the singing - the quintet at the end of the first act was quite outstanding.

Hildegard Bechtler's sets include a realistic castle interior and there are dramatic lighting sequences, too. There is humour as well - most of it cynical, to say the least.