Actéon

Lost and Found Opera use a ‘found’ space, the swimming pool at the University of Western Australia, to present Charpentier’s 1684 chamber opera, in a production that is fascinating, beautifully interpreted and a joy to watch.

Despite being over 300 years old, Actéon is particularly pertinent in the #metoo era. Based on a story from Ovid, the hunter Actéon discovers the goddess bathing with her attendants. Angered, Diana turns Actéon into a stag, who is then pursued and devoured by his own hounds. In this incarnation, Actéon and his pack are drunken students ‘on the hunt’ after a fancy dress ball, who break into the swimming area with a stag-head trophy stolen from the Dean’s office. It is a lovely blend of the ordinary and appropriate to the venue, with the immortal and surreal.

Countertenor Russell Harcourt, while playing a mortal and sozzled students, brings an ethereal feel with his stunning other-worldly voice, in a performance that entrances. His compatriots, a chorus of very merry students, are very well played with fine voice and loads of irreverence and personality.

Ashlyn Tymms is a strong and formidable Diana, in a performance fitting for a goddess - vocally and physically strong. She spends much of the show in the water, but still manages to command the stage (or pool). Diana’s companions are excellent, with Caitlin Cassidy (Hyale and Junon), Corrine Cowling (Arthebuze) and Bonnie de la Hunty (Daphne) all looking and sounding amazing. Diana is accompanied, not only by a chorus of Nymphs, whose singing is angelic rather than nymph-like, but, in a move unique to this production, a group of swimming nymphs, synchronised swimmers from SynchroWA, coached by Briana Priess, who add much atmosphere.

Tyler Hill has created gorgeous costuming, and Karen Cook has worked miracles to light this huge space. While at times it feels a little dark, the creative use of lighting as part of set, and even costuming is very clever.

Chris van Tuinen leads a very strong orchestra

Despite the seats being less than comfortable, Actéon is a thrilling and exciting experience that delighted its audience. Wonderful to see such a thoughtful and highly creative production.

Kimberley Shaw