Mezzo Makes Music Center Opera Bow

Enacting more an American sweetheart than an Italian bombshell, Theodora Hanslowe took over the title role of Rossini’s “L’Italiana in Algeri” Wednesday at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion.

Making her first appearance with Los Angeles Music Center Opera, Hanslowe conscientiously went through (on how little stage rehearsal?) director Alain Marcel’s vampish rituals, but her heart didn’t seem in them, and she did not dominate the stage dramatically or vocally, especially in ensembles. Still, she made Isabella’s relationship with her lover Lindoro tender and credible.

She sang with a light, clear and smallish mezzo that, interestingly, blossomed darkly under pressure, yet also remained warm when she sang softly. While the extremes were a little raw, the voice negotiated the coloratura with bright and precise agility.

Still, Hanslowe didn’t play with the passages as comically as did her predecessor in the role. Everything came together for her perhaps most effectively in the great exhortation of patriotism in the final act.

The rest of the cast was previously reviewed. Richard Bonynge again conducted.

* Theodora Hanslowe sings the final performance of Rossini’s “L’Italiana in Algeri” Saturday at 7:30 p.m. at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, 135 N. Grand Ave. $22-$120 (student and senior rush tickets $15, one hour before curtain if available). (213) 972-8001.