Carolyn J. Sharp

This performance puts into a contemporary context the goals of the 17th century masque and remakes an old art form into a spectacular new art form. The sound is sharp and clear, and the singing is virtuoso. Yet other performances of Purcell's exquisite music (such as by Les Arts Florissants on CD) are also excellent. What is amazing is the staging and the integration of the spoken text and dance with the music. At times bawdy, at times tender, the performance is always vivid and always captures attention. While I can't agree with every detail in the director's choices (such as the use of dress shoes for Bottom's ears as an ass), repeatedly the choices startle yet work.
By Stephen J. Willson