"Staged in an intimate, plain gallery space decorated with little more than a smudge of lipstick on one wall and a snarling boar’s head mounted on another, this “Alcina,” seen on Sunday, elegantly and entertainingly conjured a catalog of human emotions in its collision of confused, desperate lovers. The designs were ingenious, including Paul Tate dePoo’s deceptively simple set, full of clever exits and entrances; Terese Wadden’s stylish costumes; JAX Messenger’s lighting, which did a great deal with very little; and Dave Bova’s evocative hair and makeup."

- The New York Times

"Artistic values triumphed last weekend when R.B. Schlather directed a unique presentation of Handel's Alcina--and without sacrificing musical values, thanks to a strong cast of singers and  an octet of fine musicians under the direction of Geoffrey McDonald who conducted with admirable verve.The atmosphere was casual with musicians and conductor clad in grey t-shirts and a mostly young audience crammed into a black box space painted white.  The stage at the far end was raised high enough for everyone to have a good view and the singers entered from below.  Scenography by Paul Tate DePoo comprised only a short staircase and the head of a fierce wild boar mounted on a side wall, representative of one of Alcina's lovers whom she had transformed. JAX Messenger's lighting was atmospheric."

- The Opera Insider

DON GIOVANNI

CURTIS OPERA + OPERA PHILADELPHIA

2019

Direction By: 

R.B. Schlather

Scenography: 

Paul Tate dePoo III

Costume Design: 

RB Schlather

Lighting Design: 

JAX Messenger + Christopher Frey