Bryn Terfel Delivers a Haunting Performance in Boris Godunov Revival
The Royal Opera House in London has launched its second revival of Richard Jones's compelling production of Mussorgsky's Boris Godunov, with Bryn Terfel reprising his role as the troubled tsar in a run that continues until 18 February 2026. This dark opera, based on Pushkin's drama, explores themes of power and guilt through a relentless musical score, and this revival, directed by Ben Mills, maintains the production's intense atmosphere.
A Brutal and Atmospheric Opening Sets the Tone
The opera begins with a brutal flashback scene, conceived by director Richard Jones, where a doll-headed figure is attacked by hooded men. This moment, replayed throughout the performance, haunts the protagonist and establishes the grim mood of Mussorgsky's work. The production features a single, cavernous set in charcoal-grey, with a small yellow chamber above, beautifully lit to enhance the dramatic tension.
Mark Wigglesworth's Conducting Drives the Momentum
Conductor Mark Wigglesworth skillfully maintains the opera's pacing, balancing the score's dense, heavy passages with lighter moments. The orchestration, dominated by low voices and punctuated by tolling bells, is contrasted by finely blended high woodwind, creating a musical chiaroscuro. The strings play a vital role, shifting from fidgety to tender, adding depth to the relentless progression towards crisis.
Impressive Cast Supports Terfel's Central Role
Bryn Terfel's performance as Boris Godunov is the centrepiece of this revival. His portrayal of the tsar is unmistakeably troubled, with wild-eyed expressions, violent consonants, and grim giggles that lurch into barking. Yet, Terfel's voice remains supple and rich, highlighting the character's complexity and humanity. He is supported by an impressive cast, including Adam Palka as the elderly monk Pimen, whose chronicle is depicted through vast paintings dragged across the stage.
Other standout performances include Andrii Kymach as Andrei Shchelkalov, Robert Berry-Roe in the treble role of Boris's son, and promising house debuts by Alexander Roslavets as Varlaam and Jamez McCorkle as Grigory Otrepiev. The chorus, clad in peasant-drab with bursts of colour for the coronation, adds to the visual and dramatic impact, while cameo roles like Susan Bickley's hostess provide moments of relief.
A Production Focused on Vocal Excellence
Richard Jones's production frames the singing as the main event, with minimalistic staging that keeps the focus on the performers. The physicality of the actors, such as Palka's painful progress as Pimen, and the cartoonish bobbing of monks in the tavern scene, adds layers to the storytelling. Overall, this revival of Boris Godunov offers a powerful exploration of power and guilt, anchored by Terfel's masterful performance and a strong ensemble cast.
