Personal sacrifice meets political thriller in Simon Boccanegra, an opera by a master of the genre- Giuseppe Verdi.
We caught up with Opera Australia tenor Diego Torre, who played the Genoese gentleman and love-interest Gabriele Adorno in the opera, to discuss the twisting plot and the interesting challenges of Verdi operas.
This is your debut in the role of Gabriele Adorno in Simon Boccanegra for Opera Australia. What are your thoughts on the role and the opera?
This is my second production of Simon Boccanegra. The first one I did it in Parma, Italy, four years ago. But then and now the initial thoughts never have changed. It’s always very exciting to sing Verdi but now, with more experience, I’m approaching the role with more confidence and colors.
Lyndon Terracini describes Verdi’s operas as the “Olympics for singers”. Do you agree that Simon Boccanegra is one of the most demanding roles for artists?
I wouldn’t say its the most demanding, but all Verdi’s Operas are dificult to sing due there are many elements that we, as a singers, have to achieve before to attempt to sing them. Legato, phrasing, breathing technique and power gives you the access to accomplish it.
You describe yourself a “Verdi dreamer” and mentioned that the music often appears in your head. Do you think there is a particular reason for that?
I’m a Verdi dreamer because I really love to sing Verdi and one of my goals is to sing all the music that he wrote for tenor. This moment with Opera Australia has given me the opportunity to accumulate more roles on my list.
Boccanegra is known for its slightly convoluted story. Do you have any tips for audience members who hope to keep up with the twisting characters and plots?
If they come to the theatre with the synopsis already read, it’s going to be way easier to follow the plot and enjoy the music!
This is your twelfth role with Opera Australia since 2013. What is your favourite thing about being part of the OA Company?
OA has become my Family. The place I’d want to sing most and I’m doing it.
You tend to play the hot-headed characters, who are always quick to react to situations without properly thinking them through (ie. Adorno, Luisa Miller’s Rodolfo and La Boheme’s Rodolfo, Don Carlos….). Do you think you are anything like this is in real life?
Not at all. Ninety times out of a 100 I think twice what I’ve to do or say.
And finally, is there a role (regardless of your vocal type and range) that you would love to perform?
There are many but if I have to name one, maybe Sigfried by Wagner.
Simon Boccanegra ran as part of the Opera Australia Winter Season until August 13 at the Sydney Opera House. For more information on future operas visit opera.org.au
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