Jerry Springer – The Opera takes on a new stage
A scene from Jerry Springer - The Opera.
In its opening night performance at University of Toronto’s Hart House Theatre, one unexpected opera offers up adults dressed as babies, adulterers and vengeful strippers galore. All of this could only be found on one stage: that of TV’s king of guilty-pleasure smut, Jerry Springer.
From the opening of Jerry Springer – the Opera, running until Jan. 31, don’t expect Verdi or Wagner. In this Canadian premiere directed by Richard Ouzounian, the chorus line belts out typical Springer antics in an original and inviting score. Equally inviting is the special student price of $15, which creates a unique operatic experience that’s accessible on a budget. Sure to offend, the show delivers a multitude of wacky guests who divulge a kaleidoscope of sinful confessions.
Byron Rouse, who portrays the colourful TV veteran, offers a comical performance without being over the top. Periodically, Springer’s inner conscience emerges to offer advice, which he continually refuses, resulting in his descent into hell. He invites the audience to embrace the bizarre occurrences that grace the infamous Springer stage, which have transfixed followers of the notorious television show since its inception in 1991.
Surprisingly, Springer’s “guests” reveal an insight into the larger-than-life personas that frequent the television show. The audience is left to wonder whether the psyche of Jerry Springer is really so different from their own.
“The opera presents the controversy in a way that is really relatable to the audience,” said Ian Bender, who plays the roles of transsexual Tremont and Gabriel, the angel of death.
The performances by main actors and chorus are quite strong overall, despite moments of weakness. Greg Finney, in the unlikely roles of both God and Dwight the bisexual adulterer, proves a standout by showcasing his quirky one-liners in a resounding baritone that allows the audience to forgive his shameless antics.
Although the second act does not deliver as well as the first vocally, Springer’s “final thought” asks the audience to ponder the morality of the spectacle they’ve just witnessed. And as a potent mixture of high and low art, this new style of opera gives them plenty to think about.
Tickets are available by phone (416-978-8849) or online at http://www.uofttix.ca.
