Anna Bolena @ The Hackney Empire

This little performed Donizetti opera sung by the English Touring Opera in a very dramatic production. Although the scenery was minimal the costumes were sumptuous and the orchestra appropriately competent and understated. I hate it when the orchestra is intrusive to prevent clarity of the singers' voices. The singers on this occasion were all excellent, especially the title role and Percy. I'm having a week of the life of Anne Boleyn - (see the entry for The Other Boleyn Girl on my film blog). Donizetti certainly takes a very different take on the life of the ill-fated Tudor Queen. In his opera Henry is already stuck inot a steamy affair with Jane Seymour and is plotting to entrap his 'innocent' wife Anne in infidelity, with former beau Percy. Meanwhile lovelorn page Smeaton (confusingly sung by a woman) provides the 'evidence' which convicts Anna Bolena, her brother, Percy and Smeaton. The English T0uring Opera are a very good ensemble and guarantee excellent productions. Alas this particular opera doesn't provide any themes or set pieces to set you humming as you leave the theatre. Donizetti goes for constant frenetic energy and you can end up feeling bludgeoned by the constant emotion. Rating: 8/10