FORT WORTH -- It's not every day that opera lovers experience a tour de force -- that convergence of evocative drama, supple orchestra playing and, above all, beautiful singing.
But Sunday was one of those days.
Fort Worth Opera's Lucia di Lammermoor at Bass Hall was a riveting showcase for soprano Elizabeth Futral in the title role, and the rest of the cast and chorus matched her elevated artistry. The performance polished Donizetti's moody tragedy to a delicious sheen.
Futral is acclaimed for previous portrayals of Lucia, and in exciting vocal flights, airy trills, and fleet, flawless runs, Futral conveyed her character's innocence and then her deteriorating state of mind. Her effortless delivery and natural vibrato put a halo around her sound the way floral notes blossom after a taste of fine wine.
The signature scene in Lucia is Lucia's Mad Scene, and Futral executed it with exquisite phrasing and harrowing psychological flourishes....
Tenor Stephen Costello brought dashing ardor to Edgardo. In his great aria at the finale, his voice soared effortlessly and with moving conviction....
Conducted by Steven White, the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra played elegantly.
