Amorous Conquests Take Center Stage in ‘Tales of Hoffman’ at LA Opera

Steve Silkin

Vittorio Grigolo sings his companions through wild tales of frustrated romance in LA Opera’s new version of Offenbach’s classic “Tales of Hoffman.”  Grigolo stars as Hoffman, who delights his drinking buddies with the stories of amorous pursuits. Alas, Hoffman never attains his goals, thwarted by dark and mysterious villains at every turn. His objects of desire include Giulietta, the schemer; Olympia, the wind-up doll; Stella, the slippery one; and delicate Antonia. The latter two roles are performed by a star singer of the moment, Diana Damrau, making her first appearance with the company. Her formidable repertory and discography is crowned by numerous titles, including Best Female Singer at the 2014 International Opera Awards.

Jacques Offenbach, who composed in the late 19th century, may be better known as a writer of operettas, especially “Orpheus aux Enfers” (“Orpheus in the Underworld”). His operetta oeuvre was a hit thanks to its subject matter – stories of sex, a lot more sex, and jokes – about sex. But always with strong songs, stirring melodies and compositions that are on par with Puccini. “Hoffman” is one of only two full operas that he wrote – the other failed and has only been recently revived – and is uncharacteristic of his operetta work, as it’s labeled “opera fantastique.” Also, his big hit was incomplete when he died – and he never heard it performed. Another composer completed it, “Hoffman” was a wild success and has since become a staple of every company’s repertory.

Offenbach was born as Jacob in Germany into the family of a Jewish cantor, but grew up in France and became a citizen there – hence the name change to Jacques. The mix of German and French influences is apparent in his work, and especially in Hoffman. “Stylistically, the opera reveals a remarkable amalgam of French and German influences,” one critic noted. “Weberian chorales preface Hoffman’s narrative. Olympia delivers a big coloratura aria straight out of French grand opera, while Antonia sings herself to death to music reminiscent of Schubert.”

It should be a treat for LA audiences to hear that “big coloratura aria” sung by Damrau. The other main roles are performed by Nicolas Teste (the villains); So Young Park and Liv Redpath (Olympia); and Kate Aldrich (Giulietta).

“Tales of Hoffman” is March 25 – April 15 at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion on Grand Avenue in Downtown Los Angeles. Purchase tickets here.