Current trends in directing opera performances

Abstract

The purpose of the article is to identify trends in the development of 21st-century opera
direction in the context of symbiotic processes of theatrical and musical art. Methodology is based
on the use of complex theoretical interaction – systemic (for holistic research of opera
performances as an artistic phenomenon), historical (for analyzing the further development of
operatic direction), analytical (for researching trends of operatic direction in the context of the
modern sociocultural process) and empirical (for purposeful studying object of study) methods.
Scientific novelty. The tendencies of the development of modern opera in the context of the specifics
of directorial activity have been determined; analyzed the symbiotic processes of theatrical and
musical components of the opera on the example of the productions «Masked Ball» (dir. P. Pizzі, in
2014), «La Traviata» (director A. Bernard, 2017), «Aida» by G. Verdi (dir. M. Kavanagh, 2018)
and «Tosca» by G. Puccini (dir. A. Talevye, 2018) proved that innovative directorial principles and
methods have a positive effect on the development of performing skills of opera artists.
Conclusions. The innovation of opera productions at the present stage is due to the pronounced
individuality of the direction, the characteristic features of which are: an understanding of the
importance of the creative analysis of the specifics of the modern socio-cultural space; original
artistic thinking, etc. Summarizing the practice of opera and dramatic direction, leading artists
create new staged culture using the discoveries of modern world theater, preferring the natural
expression of emotions, reflection and revelation of the spiritual life of a person in performances,
since it is the energy component of the play and its spectacle is the key to success with the viewer. The main principle of directorial cooperation with performers is the creation of holistic stage
images due to the accuracy of vocal interpretation and enhancement of acting. The classic legacy of
opera art is currently the basis for innovative creative searches of directors, dominant in which is
to preserve the structure of the work as a holistic phenomenon, strengthening the leading role of
musical dramaturgy, non-standard possibilities of stage decisions, according to the features of the
musical score.
Key words: opera, musical score, directors, opera performances, conductors, opera
performers.