I have photographed a lot of operas directed by Richard Studer since I first worked with him about 10 years ago when I was in my early days as an opera photographer. From a photographic perspective, every single one is fun. Each interpretation is unique, lively and full of potential for stunning opera photographs. This occasion was the Magic Flute by Mozart, and as ever, the performance was fantastic.

One of my favourite sets I have ever had the joy of being opera photographer at!

Papageno and his panpipes

One of the many stunning costumes in Mid Wales Opera’s performance of the Magic Flute

The Magic Flute given to Tamino

The hexagons changed colour, reflecting the atmosphere of the scene

The lighting was phenomenal, and typically creative of a Richard Studer production. Throughout the whole opera there was a simple hexagonal honeycomb backdrop, but Declan Randall’s mastery with use of contrasting colours, as well as broad range of deep shadows and bright whites made it feel different in each scene, dependant on the setting and mood. The central sphere changing between orange to reflect the day, and blue to reflect the night transformed the atmosphere instantly.

The Queen of the Night

The costumes were eye-catching, and sometimes bizarre (in the most complimenting sense of the word!) – both of these qualities being thankfully very photogenic! The three attendants of the Queen of the Night were in futuristic dresses, with bright turquoise, dragonfly-like colours, and striped tights. Papageno, with a more traditional ragged shirt with colourful feathers stuck to them.

The three attendants of the Queen of the Night

The way in which the birds were portrayed, that appeared around Papageno was interesting, with the birds being puppets to humans wearing huge parrot masks. The variety of costumes added a real playfulness to the opera, and as such the photos, making it really enjoyable to be at.

The quirky bird costumes

Papageno and Papagena

Tamino surrounded by the attendants of the Queen of the Night

Pamina

Watching Richard Studer’s operas is always a treat and this one was no different. From the beautiful music to the bright colours and visual stimuli, there is never a dull moment!

A stunning performance

Last shot of Papageno and Papagena

One of the many faces of Papageno

Papageno, again

Pamina and Tamino

The attendants of the Queen of the Night discover Tamino