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Adam Plachetka as Figaro captivates audiences and critics at Palm Beach Opera
5.4.2025
Palm Beach Opera wraps season with a stylish and delightful “Figaro”
The Czech bass-baritone Adam Plachetka took to the role of the valet Figaro with gusto, his imposing physical presence and stage manner suggesting who really ran things in the Count’s castle. In “Se vuol ballare,” delivered as he polished the count’s shoes, his assertive, intense and agile voice effectively communicated his plans to take on his boss. Particularly well done was the aria “Non più andrai,” Figaro’s gleeful sendoff to the army of the page Cherubino. For this, he donned a white apron and drew out his old barber’s shears to administer a military haircut to the boy as he sang, putting an extra dose of venom into his words as he described the military life in store for the quivering Cherubino.
David Fleshler
Review: Palm Beach Opera closes season with delightful 'Marriage of Figaro'
Platchetka has an amazing voice, with rich overtones and a commanding stage presence, perfect for the role of Figaro. An interesting choice, though, to portray Figaro as aggressive in the first act, when he pulls Susanna off of their bed during an argument about the count’s intentions. He seemed overtly angry and grabbed her roughly, making some in the audience audibly gasp at the action. As the scene moved on, the level of continued aggressiveness served to paint him as a jealous lover, on par with the likes of the count.
Sarah Hutchings
6.4.2025
PB Opera tops itself with stellar ‘Figaro,’ jewel of the season
As Figaro, Adam Plachetka’s resonant baritone, perfect diction, and commanding stage presence provided for a perfect fit for the role.
https://palmbeachartspaper.com/pb-opera-tops-itself-with-stellar-figaro-jewel-of-the-season/
Photo: Bruce R. Bennett