Review of La cambiale di matrimonio

La Cambiale Di Matrimonio fits under the category of not being one of Rossini's best operas(Il Barbiere Di Siviglia, William Tell and La Cenerentola) but always worth a listen or watch. And this is an excellent production of it. It isn't completely flawless, Amelia Felle is a charming actress but her colouratura didn't always seem very secure. The rest of the performances are great though, Janice Hall is just radiant, Carlos Feller is a true Rossini basso buffo in every sense, John DelCarlo is characterful and sonorous in his role and Alberto Rinaldi apart from spots of rough intonation sings with a lot of energy. The production looks beautiful and elegant, if very simple, and it is intelligently directed by Michael Hampe who brings out the comedy elements very well. The music is as ever tuneful, and stylishly performed by the orchestra and adeptly directed by Gelmetti(his experience in Rossini shows). Overall, excellent. 9/10 Bethany Cox