Costanzo's One-Man 'Figaro': A Dizzying Operatic Feat at Little Island

In a remarkable display of versatility, Anthony Roth Costanzo has taken on a singular challenge at New York's Little Island. The acclaimed countertenor is performing multiple roles in Mozart's "The Marriage of Figaro," showcasing his extraordinary range and theatrical prowess.

Costanzo's performance spans an impressive three-and-a-half octaves, as he embodies characters from the scheming Figaro to the buoyant Susanna. This unique interpretation of the classic opera, which premiered on May 1, 1786, in Vienna, demonstrates Costanzo's ability to traverse various vocal registers and personalities with ease.

The production, running until September 22, 2024, at Little Island's outdoor amphitheater, features innovative staging elements. Stagehands in black attire assist Costanzo, manipulating props and set pieces to help distinguish between characters. As the opera progresses, these crew members evolve into more integral parts of the performance, adding layers of complexity to the already intricate plot.

Music director Dan Schlosberg leads a streamlined ensemble, featuring a string quartet, clarinetists, and a French horn. This reduced orchestration maintains the opera's comedic essence while adapting to the unique outdoor setting.

Little Island itself adds to the production's charm. This 2.3-acre public park, built on 132 elevated "pots" in the Hudson River, provides a picturesque backdrop for this unconventional opera experience.

Costanzo's multifaceted career extends beyond this performance. Recently appointed as Opera Philadelphia's seventh general director and president, he has introduced innovative pricing strategies for the upcoming 2024-25 season, offering "pick your price" tickets starting at $11.

This production of "The Marriage of Figaro" not only showcases Costanzo's exceptional talent but also highlights the opera's enduring appeal. As one of Mozart's most frequently performed works, it continues to captivate audiences with its blend of comedy and social commentary.

While the production's whimsical approach may overshadow some of the opera's deeper themes, it undeniably offers a fresh and engaging perspective on a classic work. Costanzo's performance serves as a testament to his versatility and the enduring power of opera to surprise and delight audiences.

"Everything that he does, he does well."

This innovative interpretation of "The Marriage of Figaro" demonstrates that sometimes, to truly appreciate the classics, one must be willing to approach them from an entirely new angle.