REVIEW: The Barber of Seville by Opera Kipling at Upstairs at the Gatehouse 7-9/31 August 2026
“While refreshing, it was hard to see the motivation for the update to the 1960s.” ★★★
It is rare to see opera on the fringe and Opera Kipling’s production of Rossini’s “The Barber of Seville” certainly delivered on its aim to present an accessible reimagining of the work to UK audiences. Accompanied by musical director Giannis Giannopoulos on the keyboard, the cast delivered a technically brilliant and stripped-down version of Rossini’s dynamic score.
Seville has become the swinging 1960s, as lovers Rosina (Laura Curry) and Almaviva/Lindoro (Robert Tilson), with the help of the fast-talking “barber of quality” Figaro (Alexander Jones), try to outsmart Rosina’s ward Don Bartolo (Massimo Modoni). The first act hints at the world of the past, with Rosina costumed in a Snow White like dress. But as chaos ensues and the notary Don Basilio (Geoff Clapham) falls into a drug-induced trip, we are treated to colourful flashing lights and costume changes now fully reminiscent of the youth movements of the 60s. Rosina, now in a 1960s mini dress and with her hair in a beehive, is finally united with the popstar Almaviva.
While a refreshing attempt, it was hard to see the motivation for the update of the setting of the production, especially in the first act. The connection between the restlessness of the 60s and that of the two young lovers resisting the elder Bartolo could have used the additional support of references to the political and historical events of the time period. Though overall innovative with this company’s (truly admirable) ability to show us what opera, at its core, is, we are left asking why this particular production, in this particular place, now.
The Barber of Seville (Opera Kipling), Upstairs at the Gatehouse, 7-9 August/31 August 2026
Tickets: £18/£16 (conc.)
Tickets are available from Camden Fringe or the venues direct:
Camden Fringe: https://camdenfringe.com/events/the-barber-of-seville/
Upstairs at the Gatehouse:
https://upstairsatthegatehouse.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows
Rottingdean Arts: https://rottingdeanarts.org.uk/
Opera Kipling were formed in 2019, by young professionals to bring accessible up-close Opera to audiences across the UK.
