Amadeus

Synopsis

This play, starring the best music of Mozart, gives an alternate view of the un-timely death of Mozart. Seen through the eyes of the Court Composer Salieri we get a story of jealousy and hatred as the young upstart's talents eclipse the established musical hierachy. But, was Salieri directly involved in Mozart's death or not?

Our Review:

14 November 2007

The ongoing refurbishment of the Crucible Theatre means that new productions by Sheffield Theatres are much rarer these days. Nikolai Foster’s ambitious, strongly-cast production of Peter Shaffer’s classic, Amadeus, therefore has the feel of a big occasion, with an excellent young string ensemble playing Mozart in the foyer.

Amadeus, of course, is the Mozart play that’s not really about Mozart. The myth has long existed that court composer Salieri, more materially successful, but lacking in genius, poisoned Mozart. In Shaffer’s version the ageing Salieri confesses, not to the murder, but to the systematic destruction of his rival’s success and happiness. The story is acted out with Mozart, initially brash, foul-mouthed and uncontrollably childish, finding humanity and a measure of maturity as his life collapses around him. Other characters, from the Emperor downwards, are sharply defined, though not at g...

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Latest User Review

Abbey - 29 November 2007:

Pleasantly surprised with this production and really enjoyed it. Not what I had envisaged at all. The cast and crew were brilliant as was the set. Great night overall. Thanks...

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