Opera North's La Bohème | The Lowry

Opera North’s La Bohème, directed by Phyllida Lloyd, is one of the company’s longest running productions, forming part of its repertoire since 1993. The production is based on Giacomo Puccini’s original opera, composed in 1896, with a libretto by Luigi Illica and Giuseppe Giacosa—an enduring masterpiece still performed across the world today.

The story follows the lives of four struggling bohemians living in Paris in the 1950s: Marcello the painter, Rodolfo the poet, Colline the philosopher, and Schaunard the musician. On a freezing Christmas Eve, a young woman named Mimì enters their lives, seeking only a kind soul to relight her candle after the wind blows it out. Instead, she meets Rodolfo, and the two fall deeply in love.

As their whirlwind romance blossoms, it is revealed that Mimì is suffering from a serious illness—one that Rodolfo, a poor poet, feels unable to support her through. The four bohemians do all they can to help, but ultimately the darker, harsher realities of life prevail.

While the love story between Mimì and Rodolfo forms the emotional core of the opera, La Bohème also explores the turbulent, on-again-off-again relationship between Marcello and Musetta. Musetta, a fiery and charismatic singer, has a complicated romantic history with Marcello. When the pair cross paths again on Christmas Eve, old feelings resurface—but it remains uncertain whether rekindling their relationship will bring joy or further turmoil.

Director Lloyd and assistant director Katie Blackwell have achieved a modern, refreshed interpretation of the classic opera while remaining faithful to its original spirit. Under the baton of conductor Garry Walker, the 70-piece orchestra brings Puccini’s score vividly to life, enhancing the storytelling with emotional precision and depth.

The cast perform the opera in Italian, honouring Puccini’s original language. This adds authenticity and heightens the drama throughout the performance. English subtitles are displayed at the side of the stage for clarity, but thanks to the exceptionally strong performances, the narrative is easy to follow even without constant reliance on them. It’s an ideal introduction for anyone new to opera.

Although the storyline carries a significant emotional weight, the production also includes moments of well-timed humour, adding warmth, relatability, and balance. These elements help make the characters feel modern and grounded while still providing insight into the hardships of living in 1950s Paris.

With around 60 operatic voices featured on stage, the result is a powerful, resonant performance that captivates the audience. While the six main leads carry much of the narrative, it is refreshing to see such a wide range of performers—from various age groups—contributing to the vibrancy of the production.

The opera is presented in four acts, with a longer interval after Act Two and a shorter one between Acts Three and Four. This structure works effectively, giving the audience time to absorb each stage of the story and clearly signalling the shifts in time and character development.

Overall, Opera North's La Bohème strikes an excellent balance between its darker emotional themes and lighter comedic moments. It is engaging, easy to follow, and beautifully delivered by everyone involved. For a first-time opera-goer, it is an ideal choice.

Opera North’s La Bohème is playing at The Lowry, Salford Quays until Saturday 15th November, and at Theatre Royal Nottingham until Saturday 22 November 2025

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★★★★☆ (4*)

Gifted tickets in return for an honest review | Photography provided by The Lowry