Peter Sellars' productions can go either way, some may like it, some will hate it. I am neither a fan or detractor, I think he is capable of some good ideas that come off well but there have been some that I have questioned(I think each of his Mozart productions of the late 80s-early 90s have a couple of touches that belong in this category). Theodora is for me his best overall work, the way the story is told is telling and poignant, creative and heartfelt in equal measure. There are some striking images, the staging of Descend kind pity is just exquisite. The orchestral playing help to make this Theodora a very emotional experience, it is stylish and full of pathos when either are needed.
William Christie's conducting is first rate, with no tempos or textural balances that come across as problematic. I also cannot describe how powerful the performances were, and in an overwhelming sense. Especially true to this was Lorraine Hunt, who sings with such beauty and command of tone and with passion that you are emotionally devastated just hearing or watching her. You can really tell that she is feeling every word and we feel it too. David Daniels also stands out, with a beautiful clarity to his countertenor voice as Didymus and his rhythmic and dramatic delivery is electric. In the role of Septimus, Richard Croft sings his difficult music with effortless and athletic ease, something you'd expect from Croft. The Theodora of Dawn Upshaw is sung as clear as crystal, if not quite as intense as the rest.
Overall, simply fantastic, powerfully performed and Sellars' best and most consistent work available. 10/10 Bethany Cox
