Les Pêcheurs de Perles in concert, Royal Opera House

Antonio Pappano and ensemble vindicate Bizet's score as a gem-studded wonder

by David NiceMonday, 04 October 2010

Nicole Cabell: Gorgeous presence, classy phrasing as Hindu priestess LéïlaDevon Cass

Ditch the divers, the video-projected sea and the Relevance with a capital R of ENO's production last season - which managed all three very well indeed - and what remains of Bizet's Pearl Fishers in concert (and in French)? Three ravishing arias, three passionate duets, orchestration and harmony of a subtlety way beyond the plot's cod-oriental hokum: that's enough to begin with. Put Royal Opera music director Antonio Pappano, master of exquisite colour and winged phrasing in French music, in charge of orchestra, chorus and two-and-a-half top singers, and you're in for a treat.

"In terms of the complete package - presence, acting, looks and above all an instrument of real individuality - Nicole Cabell was the one who had it all"

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