A true melding of cultures, Marco Polo features a bombastic score by German composer Enjott Schneider and lyrics by Chinese playwright Wei Jin. Though there are occasional moments where this relationship is strained — bellowed notes in a previously low-key prison sequence spring to mind —overall, the gamble is effective. The incorporation of traditional Chinese instruments lends an additional layer of authenticity to the proceedings.
One remarked-upon aspect from this production is the use of foreign singers, like Danish tenor Peter Lodahl. Though performing in a non-native tongue is par for the course when it comes to opera, few have had to tackle this particular language. The prominence of the Western canon means singers get used to German and Italian — even if they don’t speak it — but Wei’s Chinese libretto represents something entirely new.
