Dvorak - Rusalka / Robert Carsen, James Conlon - Fleming, Urbanova, Diadkova, Larin, Opéra de Paris
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DVD Cover Information
Actor: Eva Urbanova, Franz Hawalata, James Conlon, Renée Fleming, Sergei LarinDVD: Region Code 0
Audio: English (Unknown); English (Original Language)
Format: Classical, PAL
Picture Format: 1.33:1
Running Time: 160 minutes
DVD Release Date: 2004-02-17
Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Tdk DVD Video
Movie Reviews of Dvorak - Rusalka / Robert Carsen, James Conlon - Fleming, Urbanova, Diadkova, Larin, Opéra de Paris
Movie Review: Beautiful
Summary: 5 Stars
I thought this was a gorgeous production, and was riveted from start to finish. Sometimes I get the "Eurotrashing" comments, some times I don't. In this case, I don't see it at all. I see a production of an opera based on a fairy tale where the sets and staging truly serve an artistic purpose. In my opinion, it is a production that Opera National de Paris should be proud of. I loved all of the sets, and loved the use of the "mirror image" staging to illustrate the duality of Rusalka's existence. The lighting was stunning.
Another thing I like about this production is the number of singers I am not familiar with. Truth be told, the only two in the cast I had heard are Renee Fleming and Eva Urbanova. I spend a lot of time with opera singers, none of whom you have heard of. One thing I've learned over time is this: there are plenty of great singers that will never be known to the general opera public. This production will demonstrate that to you in spades.
The opening scene of this opera set the tone perfectly. The three nymphs (Rusalka's sisters) are cavorting in the water. The staging was playful and credible. The use of water onstage was a very nice touch. The set was vast, but sparse, making the nymphs look even tinier. And what nymphs they were! Michelle Canniccioni, Svetlana Lifar, and Nona Javakhidze were fabulous. They sang beautifully, with gorgeous ensemble. They also looked the parts, beautiful and innocent, dressed in simple white gowns.
Their cavorting is eventually halted by the entrance of their father, the Water Spirit. His foreboding black suit and stern look gave way to a kind man, who proceeded to play with his daughters. As the Water Spirit, we have the fabulous baritone Franz Hawlata. What a great instrument he has, and what disciplined technique. Nothing is forced, and every vowel lines up. He delives some of the best singing in the production.
I also loved Larissa Diadkova as the witch Jezibaba. Her mezzo has a real presence. In addition to her wonderful arias and ensemble singing, she was a convincing actress. She's definitely a good witch. Not such a nice person is the Foreign Princess who underhandedly steals the Prince from our Rusalka. This juicy part is very well sung by Eva Urbanova. You may boo and hiss her actions, but you'll cheer her singing and strong characterization. The Prince is capably sung by Sergei Larin. His death at the end of the opera was very well done. Plus, it's good that not only sopranos get to die on stage!
The reason I bought this DVD is to see and hear the magnificent Renee Fleming in this signature role. All I can say is Wow! Her two big arias ("Song to the Moon" and "I am torn from life") are characteristic Renee. The set and lighting for "Song to the Moon" was just beautiful; simple, elegant, and supportive. Nothing in the set, staging, or lighting detracted from this, one of the most beautiful and moving arias in the lyric soprano rep. Renee's silky voice has plenty of great legato, full dynamic range, and outstanding register matching. Every single note has integrity. She can shape a phrase like nobody's business. Renee is also a fine actress, and a beautiful, elegant woman. I particularly enjoyed the scene where she is losing the Prince because she can't speak. The last scene and duet with the Prince is beautiful and poignant.
But the real star of this opera is the music by the great Antonin Dvorak. This opera can stand up to any opera. Dvorak was a brilliant composer who, like Beethoven, bridged the gap between Classical and Romantic. He's a lot bigger than the New World Symphony. The music is played with great sensitivity and energy by the orchestra of the Opera National de Paris, assertively conducted by James Conlon.
I hope that all opera lovers will make it a priority to own this DVD. Not only is it a beautiful production, it is a performance record of one of the finest lyric sopranos of all time singing a signature role. Renee is one of our generation's greatest blessings.
Highly recommended!
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