The Medium

"Sydneysiders should rejoice that this up-and-coming small company has utilised such talent ... Despite being a tragedy, this production brought out many comedic moments thanks to the direction and superb acting of its singers..."

Celeste Haworth, ClassikOn
This opera is accessible, funny, tragic, beautiful, mysterious – and in both its brilliance and brevity, left the audience wanting more.

Celeste Haworth, ClassikOn
Ruth Strutt is a magnificent Flora in this production with vocal chops to die for. Thrilling work!"

Kate Gaul, Theatre Travels
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The Medium (1947)

Gian Carlo Menotti

Performed at The Independent Theatre, October 2023

Synopsis

Step into the enigmatic world of Madame Flora's parlour, where deception and desperation intertwine in Gian Carlo Menotti's opera, The Medium. This gripping two-act opera weaves a haunting journey as it follows the tragic story of Monica, Toby, and the tormented Madame Flora.

Set in the aftermath of World War II, and centres on Madame Flora, her daughter Monica and Toby, a mute servant boy Flora adopted but is mercilessly cruel towards. Madame Flora makes the family's meagre living by conducting sham seances for grieving parents, using Monica to pretend to be the spirit of their dead children. When during a seance Flora suddenly senses a hand around her throat, she becomes convinced that the spirit world is seeking revenge. As the tension builds, secrets unravel, and darkness descends upon the parlour, The Medium culminates in a shocking climax that will leave you breathless.

The Medium will leave you haunted and moved, long after the final curtain falls. Experience the power of Menotti's masterpiece in this unforgettable theatrical journey.

Production Team

Conductor — Philip Eames
Director — Jane Magão
Producer — Katie Miller-Crispe
Pianist — Nathaniel Kong
Set & Costume Design — Ian Warwick
Hair & Make Up — Rachel Dal Santo & Paula Santos
Production Photography — Rosa Doric

Cast

Madame Flora — Ruth Strutt
Monica — Louise Keast & Katie Miller-Crispe
Toby — Sam Martin
Mrs Gobineau — Maria Hemphill
Mr Gobineau — Ian Warwick
Mrs Nolan — Elena Marcello