Donald Runnicles is a charismatic, mellifluous speaking Scot, a tall less shambolic version of that other famous Scot Billy Connolly. He is also a superb conductor and a frequent fixture on the Sydney Symphony Orchestra’s Calendar. It is easy to see why. Together they create a unique chemistry. Last night was no exception.
It was an exciting program. Beethoven’s Creatures of the Prometheus Overture to the eponymous ballet would have left the audience of the time tingling with expectation. It is a short work and a little over six minutes but as Runnicles said addressing the audience , this tiny jewel is a masterpiece.
Runnicles then introduced the next two works. They are connected. Richard Strauss aged 29 conducted the world premiere of Engelbert Humperdinck’s Hansel and Gretel suite. Then Strauss, 5 years later had the mischievous audacity to compose Ein Heldenleben..a Hero’s life..about himself! ( Strauss lived to 85 becoming one of Europe’s most celebrated conductors).
The two compositions are a fine contrast. Hansel and Gretel is soft and child like…but not childish, as Runnicles explained. It is a children’s suite, and Runnicles conducting brought out both the feelings of safety and vulnerability we experience in our childhood.
Ein Heldenleben is just the opposite. Strauss’ Hero is bold, brassy and fearless.It pokes fun at the world and celebrates Strauss’ escapades..some personal, some fantasy. Tongue firmly in cheek at the age of 34 he finishes with “vi. The Hero’s retirement from the world”!
Runnicles, in partnership with the SSO ( with concertmaster/ solo violinist Andrew Haveron who plays an outstanding solo) pull off a remarkably diverse concert program with verve and panache…leaving us all in good humour and liveliness as we exited the Opera house into a cold chilly Sydney winter’s night.
There were two performances of this concert at the Concert Hall, Sydney Opera House. They took place on Friday 13th June at 7pm and then Saturday 14th June at 2pm.
