Review of audio described performance of Otello at Birmingham Hippodrome on 21 Novemember 2008.

Based on the success of the Welsh National Opera’s first foray into the world of audio description with their marvellous production of Mozart’s The Magic Flute last March at the Birmingham Hippodrome, the company is to be congratulated for now building an audio described performance into their touring schedule. On their latest visit to Birmingham back in November, audio describers Jonathan Nash and Julia Grundy from Sightlines delivered the live commentary to Verdi’s Otello, the opera based on the second half of Shakespeare’s play. At 6pm visually impaired patrons and their companions were taken onto the stage and warmly welcomed by Julian from WNO, ahead of a very comprehensive touch tour during which we were given a detailed explanation of some of the many props and the set providing the back drop to this dramatic tragedy.

We then had time for a relaxing drink before taking our seats, 15 minutes before curtain-up, to listen to Jonathan’s explanation of cast and costumes, as well as a brief synopsis of the plot – which as ever, was all very useful.

Since I didn’t know the opera very well, I certainly found the well timed and informative narration enlightening, and there is no question that this added bonus certainly enhanced my enjoyment of Verdi’s 4 Act opera - another excellent offering from the WNO. VIP opera lovers will no doubt, be delighted to know that the company is arranging audio description for 2 perennial favourites – Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro and Puccini’s La Boheme to be staged at the Birmingham Hippodrome on the evening of Friday 27 March and the afternoon of Saturday 30 May respectively.