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Nadejda Komendantova

 

Fredj’s direction, meanwhile, offered a fresh, yet respectful take on Monteverdi’s work. By

setting the story within the broader context of ongoing global conflicts, Fredj underscored

the timelessness of the opera’s themes. Jerusalem, as a symbol of religious and political

strife, provided a powerful backdrop for the action, reflecting the continuous cycle of war

that has plagued humanity for centuries. The minimalist set and costume design—focused

on neutral, functional clothing rather than period-specific attire—further emphasized the

production’s modern relevance.

What truly elevated the evening was the way Monteverdi's music was used to reflect on

contemporary issues. The tension and beauty of Combattimento became a mirror to our

current world, where, like Tancredi and Clorinda, love and hate are often intertwined in

conflicts driven by misunderstandings, prejudices, and ancient rivalries. This aspect of the

production was not lost on the audience, who seemed deeply moved by the performance’s

emotional depth and its relevance to today’s crises.

In conclusion, this Combattimenti production was a resounding success, offering both an

authentic interpretation of Monteverdi’s masterpiece and a thought-provoking meditation on

the nature of human conflict. The performances were musically and dramatically

outstanding, and the modern staging lent an urgency to the piece that made it feel as

relevant today as it was when Monteverdi first composed it. An evening of profound musical

and emotional impact.

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