Judging by the quality of performance demonstrated at the rehearsal I attended, New Chamber Opera’s rendition of ‘The Fall of the House of Usher’, by Philip Glass, is a modern musical treat despite being an unfinished work.
The horror story of the same title by Edgar Allen Poe is atmospherically framed by the swirling soundscapes typical of Glass's score and the lofty surroundings of New College Antechapel. Tom Raskin brings a delicious creepiness to the central role of Roderick Usher, while Robyn Parton is a picture of icy elegance as Usher’s sister Madeline. Steffan Jones gives a vocally strong performance as William, a childhood friend of Roderick. Maxim Jones and Stefan Hargreaves deftly execute their respective roles as a loyal servant and a possibly homicidal physician, supporting a cast that maintains the attention of the audience throughout.
While Glass's music may not be to everyone's taste, this production from a versatile and talented ensemble is not to be missed.
by Simon Ogdon
The Fall of the House of Usher will be performed at 8:30pm from 30th January to 1st February, in New College Antechapel.
