Renowned tenor, Dennis O’Neill, sings the role of Othello for the first time in Wales in a spectacular production broadcast on S4C.
Welsh National Opera’s production of Verdi’s masterpiece, Otello also marks the UK directing debut of Paul Curran, respected Artistic Director of the Norwegian Opera company. The production’s musical director is Carlo Rizzi.
Dennis O’Neill is thrilled about singing this role in Wales, as he regards it as one of the finest roles in Italian opera.
“Very few operas offer the tenor a role that is so complex and multi-faceted, as opposed to two dimensional romantic figures, which is the norm for the tenor voice."
Viewers will get a unique opportunity this week to take a behind-the-scenes look at the major Welsh National Opera production starring one of Wales’ best-known singers.
Viewers will be able to follow some of the rehearsals at the home of WNO at Cardiff’s Millennium Centre. We’ll also hear the views of some of the production’s singers about the work.
Tenor, Wynne Evans (Casio) and the baritone, David Kempster (Iago) are two other Welsh singers in the cast who talk about the production.
The programme’s presenter, Rhodri Owen, also visits Cyprus as he researches the story of the Moorish General, Otello.
This WNO production is certainly powerful, with amazing sets and striking costumes. During the programme, Rhodri sets himself the task of finding one special costume – a dress created for the character of Desdemona – which is kept under lock and key as it is made of gold.
© 2012 S4C
O Gymru / Made in Wales