Falstaff, Royal Opera House ****

Shakespeare and opera seems to be the perfect combination to alienate people. The most feared playwright having his work produced in one of the most feared art forms surely must lead to a piece threatening and inaccessible. However, Carson's production is joyful and fun and provides a delightful evening of entertainment. Maestri's Falstaff is wonderful to watch, providing fun and laughter whilst the rest of the cast support the performance well, carrying off Verdi's complicated and fast melodies even if the vibrancy doesn't quite match that of Ambrogio Maestri. The set from Steinberg feels homely and fun even if the 1950s setting doesn't feel purposeful. I also wouldn't have understood the references to Deer horns if it  wasn't for a very helpful Italian woman who explained their relevance as an Italian insult for a cheater. The times Shakespeare is translated almost word for word occasionally jarred with me, especially with the honour aria in Act One but this is no fault of the production. Overall, this is a refreshingly enjoyable evening that leaves you feeling light and refreshed.