On Friday, November 18, the LeFrack Concert Hall showcased two stunning performances, Debussy’s “La Damoiselle Élue”and Puccini’s “Suor Angelica.”

The first piece which was translated from French featured the talented orchestra, women’s choir, a female narrator, and soloist (acting as “La Damoiselle”).  Based on Dante Gabriel Rosett’s poem, the piece focuses on a lamenting damsel longing to be reunified with her aficionado.  Unfortunately, their separation continues throughout the entire performance as his mortal existence on earth continues.  Regarding the actual performance, the orchestra and choir beautifully played off each other while complimenting the soloists.  Unfortunately, the only aspect which distracted from the performance was the orchestra’s dominance during certain parts of the solo, causing the listener to miss a line or two.  This was especially due to the close proximity of the players to the vocalists.  Nevertheless, the soloists confidently projected their brilliant voices with aptitude enough for the audience to thoroughly enjoy the show.

“Suor Angelica” featured Franesca Lunghi (who gave us a sneak preview in class) as La Zia Principessa, Angelica’s callous aunt.  Suor Angelica, of whom the plot revolves around, was sent to a convent after giving birth to an illegitimate child.  Seven years later, her aunt brings news of Angelica’s sister’s engagement and the death of  her child.  Angelica eventually responds with suicide, only to remember during the process that suicide is sin.   She begs the Madonna for forgiveness, which is in turn granted.

The opera seria, strengthened by an intense acting performance, truly compelled the watcher to sympathize with Sister Angelica.  The heartfelt cry of the mother sprawling on the floor juxtaposed the cold-hearted, harsh stance of the aunt facing away from her.  Furthermore, the orchestra appropriately utilized contrasting crescendos and decrescendo during shifts from Angelica’s anticipation, to despair, and eventually hope.  Fortunately, throughout the performance the strength of orchestra never overpowered the vocalists, further adding to the professionalism of the production.

The last showcase of these two productions will be on Saturday November 19, 2011.