Cape Town Opera (CTO) will bring Rossini’s comic masterpiece “The Barber of Seville” to the intimate Theatre on the Bay in Camps Bay from 5-17 August. This vibrant new production marks the opera directorial debut of acclaimed theatre-maker Sylvaine Strike, known for her work on “The Tempest,” “Spring Awakening,” and “The Promise.”
A fresh take on a classic Opera
Strike, renowned for her physically expressive storytelling and background in commedia dell’arte, promises to deliver a production rich in charm and vivid characterization. Her direction emphasizes comedy through expressive gesture and physical humor, allowing Rossini’s sparkling score to shine through a visually dynamic, character-driven approach.
“If you’ve never watched opera, you should try this production,” says Strike. “It’s delightfully funny, filled with physical humor, love, intrigue and plot twists.”
Star-studded cast features local and international talent
The multi-award-winning cast features:
- William Berger and Thando Zwane sharing the role of the irrepressible Figaro
- Innocent Masuku (who recently placed fourth in Britain’s Got Talent) and Dumisa Masoka as Count Almaviva
- Vienna-based Megan Kahts and CTO House Soloist Brittany Smith as the crafty Rosina
Supporting cast includes Lonwabo Mose and Conroy Scott as Bartolo, Monde Masimini as Don Basilio, Garth Delport as Fiorello, Luvo Rasemeni as Ambrogio, and Lusibalwethu Sesanti as Berta, alongside a male voice ensemble from the Cape Town Opera Chorus.
Grand opera in bonsai form
The production, musically directed and accompanied on piano by CTO Head Vocal Coach Jan Hugo, will showcase the expressive range and vocal virtuosity of bel canto singing in the intimate Theatre on the Bay setting.
Strike describes the production as “grand opera in bonsai form,” noting that the venue’s smaller scale becomes a creative advantage by giving audiences an up-close and emotionally resonant experience.
Visual aesthetic blends period and contemporary influences
With elegant, period-inflected costumes by Allegra Bernacchioni and a visual aesthetic inspired by classics like “Les Enfants du Paradis” and the popular series “Bridgerton,” this production of “The Barber of Seville” aims to enchant romantics, comedy-lovers, and opera newcomers alike.
Composed in 1816, Rossini’s masterpiece remains one of the most enduring works of Italian opera buffa, known for its witty recitatives and unforgettable melodies that continue to delight audiences worldwide.
Event Details
- What: Cape Town Opera presents “The Barber of Seville”
- When: August 5-17, 2025
- Where: Theatre on the Bay, Camps Bay, Cape Town
- Tickets: Available via Webtickets or the Theatre on the Bay box office (021 438 3300)
For more information about Cape Town Opera and upcoming productions, visit www.capetownopera.co.za.
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