By YVONNE HUDSON
Be careful what you wish for…
Remember when The Blue Fairy gave puppetmaker Gepetto his wish that Pinocchio become “a real boy”? As life teaches us, the realities of parenthood and personhood have their ups and downs as older and single Pinocchio appears to be whittling his life away.
The new Aria412 opera considers the adult puppet’s life journey around the Blue Fairy’s return. Options for life changes via the Fairy’s magic may have some drawbacks.
As Pinocchio again considers “wishes,” he reviews the consequences of changing his late father’s original heart’s desire to have a son who is alive, not a toy.
Tenor Rob Frankenberry is the composer and sings the endearing role of Pinocchio. Frankenberry is a multiple talent, whether composing, acting, singing, or conducting. Here, he creates a middle-aged man whose village life is limited, perhaps because of his hesitancy to take chances. The song says, “Fate is kind,” but usually needs our direction. Pinocchio has choices that can change his path.
Jenna Ziccardi beautifully sings The Blue Fairy. She’s assisted by two ensemble ladies, evocative of the women’s trio in The Magic Flute. They taunt with “Song of the Conditions.”
Like many fables and fairy tales, there’s a dark side. This story is a realistic take that ultimately leaves the listeners with the light of hope and human courage to either take chances or find peace where we are.
The libretto, written by Kip Soteres, is full of nostalgia and thoughtful twists. From the Villagers’ wondering why Pinocchio seems so “wooden” (is it his origin and/or age?) to exploring the future as they try to connect with their neighbor.
Director Dana Kinney maximizes possibilities in the initimate space. Tucker Topel‘s set sweetly provides a cozy backdrop that allows for some lovely lighting effects. Madeleine Steineck’s lighting brings touches of day and night with an especially magical effect at the end.
Sitting so near the seven amazing singers is a joy. The Blue Fairy feels like a parlor opera that can be easily presented in varied settings,
Singing the Prologue (a mood-setting mini recital of eight music theater and classical pieces about self-identify) and roles as Villagers are Katy Williams, Louise van Mook, Loghan Bazan, Andrew Bloomgarden, and Thomas Erik Angerhofer. Their distinctive voices bring lovely variety to each’s solos and gorgeous harmonies. Their musicianship is excellent at work in the prologue and opening vocalizations. Evocative of mighty crickets, frogs, and more, this instructed and improvised section sets the scene and conjures childhood dreams and wishes.
Kelly Lynch is the Prologue musical director, spotlighting each singer’s strengths—the group soars on Pete King‘s beautiful “When You Wish Upon a Star” arrangement.
Conductor Roger Zahab leads an ensemble of seven versatile instrumentalists.
May this sweetly soaring The Blue Fairy return!
TICKETS AND DETAILS
The final of three performances is tonight, June 21,2025 at 7:30 pm in the Richard E. Rauh Studio Theatre at the Cathedral of Learning on the Pitt Campus.
Visit the Link for Tickets, synopsis, libretto, and upcoming events.
Categories: Arts and Ideas, Reviews
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