If you’re looking for a reason to emerge from your winter hibernation, New Zealand Opera’s The Barber of Seville is it.

Count Almaviva (John Tessier), Rosina (Sandra Piques Eddy) and fabulous Figaro (Morgan Pearse) are sure to have you in stitches from start to finish, as will the show’s antagonists.

The Barber of Seville follows central protagonist Figaro as he helps the Count win the love of Rosina. Trouble soon emerges when we learn Rosina is confined to the house of her guardian, Doctor Bartolo, a crusty old man who’s planning to marry her.

From this point on the performance becomes a circus (the good kind). Bartolo has the power, then the Count, then back to Bartolo. The show moves quickly, in turn holding the audience’s attention with ease.

Tracy Grant Lord’s exceptional set is also deserving of mention. The colourful town of Seville easily transforms into Bartolo’s house, Rosina’s quarters in particular looking like something to be desired (very Trelise Cooper).

The set alone would keep your eyes occupied right the way through. Throw in a cast with phenomenal on-stage chemistry, flawless vocals and some bang-on comedic timing, and you’ve got yourself a mighty fine night out.

The show runs for 2 hours and 45 minutes, including a 20 minute interval, so grab a bite at one of the Isaac Theatre Royal’s neighbouring restaurants beforehand to see you through the night.

Tickets for the August 3, 5 and 7 performances are still available, but make sure you get in quick.

nzopera.com