Rossini’s Semiramide is a rare gem on today’s opera stages, so first off: hats off to the Opéra de Rouen Normandie for having the courage to program it. The performance on June 12 at the Théâtre des Arts turned out to be a real succes — a rich and dramatic evening carried by a top-tier cast and a production that found its strength especially in the second act.
Karine Deshayes gave a truly regal performance as the queen caught between power and guilt. Her Semiramide was both authoritative and deeply human, balancing vocal brilliance with emotional nuance, specially in her two superb duets. A magnificent interpretation that reminded us why she’s one of the leading mezzos of her generation.
Franco Fagioli as Arsace might split opinions — his countertenor voice is undeniably spectacular and sometimes unexpected in this repertoire. But his interpretation was bold, emotionally committed, and musically solid. Whether you love or question the vocal color, you can’t deny the sincerity of his approach. This was a fully assumed, personal Arsace, and that’s exactly what makes live opera exciting.
The evening’s big discovery was without a doubt the Georgian bass Giorgi Manoshvili. With a gorgeous dark timbre and superb bel canto technique, he delivered a thrilling Assur — both menacing and tragic. He completely owned the role, vocally and dramatically. A name to watch very closely.
Alasdair Kent brought his Rossinian finesse to Idreno, delivering the role with clarity, style, and energy. It’s clear that this repertoire fits him like a glove.
In the role of Oroe, Grigory Shkarupa brought a grounded presence, with solid low notes and authority throughout. A convincing performance that added depth to the cast.
Valentina Peleggi conducted with a strong sense of drama, drawing powerful, sometimes darker shades from the Orchestre de l’Opéra de Rouen Normandie. Rather than leaning into the sparkle of bel canto, she highlighted the opera’s emotional weight — a choice that paid off. The Accentus chorus followed suit, delivering a well-blended and intense performance.
The dark staging found its emotional core in Act II. It’s there that Rousseau’s vision really came together, enhancing the psychological complexity of the story and characters.
This Semiramide was a beautiful success, a thoughtful and vocally rich take on a demanding work. It’s a pleasure to see such rare repertoire brought to life with this level of commitment. Rouen proves once again that regional opera houses can offer world-class productions.
