“I think we were all as exhausted as the performers!”

Based on the 1733 La Serva Padrona (The Maid Turned Mistress) by Giovanni Pergolesi, Mr Punch at the Opera is a mash-up of opera, Punch & Judy, audience participation and pantomime.

Aimed at children as an introduction to live opera, it hits its mark from the off. The children are involved straight away – the adults are given party blowers, too – all of us are encouraged to join in with the action. 45-minutes later, I think we were all as exhausted as the performers!

(rehearsal photo)

In the Arcola’s intimate Studio space, the live music (piano and cello) and superb opera singing create an exciting atmosphere. The fun and jollity that Matthew Kellett (as Hubert) and Grace Nyandoro (as his maid Serena) bring is infectious. The icing on the cake are the Punch and Judy characters brought to life by Professor James.

The production is from The Opera Makers and they have quite a task but make it look easy. The performers are obviously enjoying themselves as well and that helps as we all as one agree the whole thing is absurd – but it’s escapism of high quality.

[rehearsal photo]

The show is a part of the venue’s Grimeborn Opera Festival. Live opera still to come has productions of Mozart’s Le Nozze di Figaro, Burke & Gonzalez’s 555: Verlaine En Prison, Jessen’s Plantation A and Verdi’s La Traviata. Stunning stuff. Contact the Arcola for details.

Paul Vates.

Photography Becca Marriott Adaptation Becca Marriott and the company

Director /Libretto Becca Marriott Musical Director/Piano Panaretos Kyriatzidis

Cello Alison Holford Puppetry Director Professor James

Running Time 45 minutes – no interval Dates until Saturday 24th August 2024

Check with the theatre for show time Venue Arcola Theatre, 24 Ashwin Street, London E8 3DL

Ages 4+Box Office Tickets are available from: https:///www.arcolatheatre.com/whats-on

Website https://www.theoperamakers.com Socials @mrpunchattheopera #mrpunchattheopera