Richard Strauss - Die Frau Ohne Schatten
by Brian Large
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DVD Cover Information
Actor: Bryn Terfel, Cheryl Studer, Ellen Shade, Marjana Lipovsek, Thomas MoserDirector: Brian Large
Writer: Hugo von Hofmannsthal
DVD: Region Code 0
Audio: English (Unknown); English (Subtitled); German (Original Language); English (Original Language); French (Original Language); Spanish (Original Language); Italian (Original Language); Mandarin Chinese (Original Language)
Format: Classical, Color, DTS Surround Sound, DVD, NTSC, Subtitled
Picture Format: 1.78:1
Running Time: 204 minutes
DVD Release Date: 2002-09-24
Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Decca
Movie Reviews of Richard Strauss - Die Frau Ohne Schatten
Movie Review: Thoroughly inspiring performance of magical,fairytale opera.
Summary: 5 Stars
The negative criticisms of some previous reviewers notwithstanding, this is a fantastic performance of a wondrous, magical opera, the last and perhaps best collaboration between Hugo von Hoffmannstahl and Richard Strauss. Here the composer, surprisingly, returns to his earlier style (e.g. Salome, Elektra) with a huge orchestra and vast volume of sound, but at the same time combines it with quiet, chamber music sections. The overall effect is a balance between the two and the work remains fascinating and enchanting in spite of its length. The score is, of course, not expected to be fully comprehended at first hearing, but repeated listening will bring discovery and lots of enjoyment.
It is a great gift of technology today, the DVD, that such a production can be accessible to the public.
To begin with: Solti the conductor. It is quite obvious to anyone by now that he was one of the two greatest conductors (Karajan the other) of the latter half of the 20th century. Here we witness his greatness by watching him conduct, his intense concentration, his precise and elegant baton handling, his finger and eye movements giving almost imperceptible clues to his orchestra. He creates incredible orchestral effects with an economy of movements
thereby preserving his energy (after all, he was over 75 years old at the time). Just watch him conduct the Interlude, the Descent onto Earth, in Act. I., (reminiscent of similar passage in the Rheingold), so exciting it is that it will hold you breathless.
The production itself is visually stunning with inspired set designs, strong images and beautiful colours - a feast to the eye.
The principals are to varying degrees quite exceptional. Eva Marton, the Hungarian born soprano is thoroughly inspired in the monstrously difficult role of Barak's wife although her voice is no longer in its prime. Her acting is uninhibited and riveting. Cheryl Studer, a highly accomplished dramatic soprano is also inspired and very sympathetic as the Empress. But Marjana Lipovsek (who, contrary to a previous reviewer, is very much alive!) is the most outstanding female singer in the production, as the Nurse.
Robert Hale, as Barak, creates a completely believable character and grows emotionally as the opera progresses. Even his voice gets stronger and stronger. Thomas Moser as the Emperor, unfortunately, is no match for Placido Domingo as his voice is comparatively under powered. Bryn Terfel has a stentorian voice, promising a great career for him in years to come.
It has to be mentioned that the previously released CD set on Decca, also with Solti, has marginally better singers , but I would not for a moment hesitate to get the DVD if you want to see this opera. It is also more economical: 2 DVD's vs. 3 CD's.
The set is neatly presented, booklet included. Interactive menus with a great many Decca DVD previews are available.
A "must have" for all Strauss lovers.
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