Nikoloz Lagvilava receives opera critics' acclaim in German premiere of 'Othello'

Georgian opera singer Nikoloz Lagvilava has received critical acclaim for his performance in a premiere of Othello at the Aalto Music Theatre in Essen over the weekend.

Lagvilava's appearance in the role of Iago in the Verdi classic was noted by critics who pointed out how the baritone "showed that Iago is the principal character" in the work, presented at the venue in Germany's east on Saturday.

Coming in a multi-show bill, the premiere for the work featured musical direction by Matteo Beltrami and production by Roland Schwab.

When Nikoloz Lagvilava joins the ramp for the final applause, thunderous cheers break out," a review by the Westdeutsche Allgemeine Zeitung newspaper said.

Lagvilava was flanked by Gaston Rivero in the principal role of Othello, while Gabrielle Mouhlen was cast as Desdemona in the four-act show.

The Georgian singer will be involved in the cast for the remaining bills of the opera, spanning through 28 June at the German theatre.

Lagvilava's performance of the Iago role drew acclaim from stage art reviewers following the premiere. Photo: www.theater-essen.de.

The baritone has been featured in opera classics at the venue including Rigoletto.

Born in Tbilisi, Lagvilava graduated from the State Conservatoire in Georgia's capital before performing at the Tbilisi Opera and Ballet State Theatre in productions including Un ballo in maschera, Nabucco and La traviata.

Later joining the joining the academy of the famed Teatro alla Scala in Milan, the singer also performed at venues including Norway's National Opera and Ballet Theatre and the Bolshoi Theatre of Moscow.