Così fan tutte: POV's Production
April 15, 20, 22, and 24, 2010, at 8 pm. Matinée April 17 at 3 pm
Construction Photos of the Set
Inspired by the works of M.C. Escher, Elli Bunton's set design for Così fan tutte suggests a topsy-turvy world, at once abstract, contemporary, and multi-dimensional, in which perspectives change and twist to reveal reality in unexpected ways.
The photos below show two views of the set while under construction in POV's Production facility.
Above: The Così set in The Opera Shop, about a month before Opening Night
Above: Detail of the Così Set, being built in POV's Opera Shop.
Così 2010: Why today?
Così fan tutte is unique among Mozart's operas. While most of his works are based on straightforward narrative, Così is more adventurous in its dramaturgical approach. The characters begin as archetypes, and end as fully etched individuals. The story is intentionally absurd. Of course, the women would recognize the men and their fake moustaches; of course, they would realize that they are faking the reaction to poison. They may even know the men's real identity as they succumb to the seduction. Critics who question the work's realism are missing the point. It is not intended to be realistic.
Così 's theatrical glory is watching the transformation and revelation of the characters. And while the theatrical form is not based in realism, the characters most assuredly are, making Così Mozart's most contemporary work by today's theatrical standards. For this reason, Così is often given an extreme theatrical treatment to highlight its dramatic nature. One need only look at Peter Sellars' setting in Despina's Diner or Doris Dörrie's popular version for the Berlin Staatsoper, complete with hippies and flower children, to see the range of updates that have been explored.
Artistic Director Timothy Vernon suggested a 2010 version to the Creative Team. Vernon is fascinated that while more than 200 years have passed since Così 's premiere, its questions of love, fidelity and human relationships are as pertinent today as ever before. The sexual freedom that emerged in the 60's is now at odds with promise rings and chastity pacts; contemporary culture explores the range of opinions on these issues in popular music, film and television.
With this updated version of Così, Director François Racine, Set Designer Elli Bunton, and Costume Designer Mara Gottler have created an environment which intentionally asks as many questions as it answers. The design has a high class elegance that suggests wealth and entitlement, and yet is disarmingly abstract. There are visions of haute couture, many literal open windows for the characters to consider, many height levels in which to explore the character revelation – and still enough doors to slam to reveal the work as an uproarious farce.
David Shefsiek
Photos: Maureen Woodall
Tickets: 250-385-0222
Explore Così fan tutte
Coming from out of town? We recommend the Chateau Victoria, our host hotel. For special discount subscriber rates, contact them directly at 1.800.663.5891.
Season Underwriter