Leoncavallo - Pagliacci (Vjekoslav Šutej, Roberto Alagna) [2006]

×

Leoncavallo - Pagliacci (Vjekoslav Šutej, Roberto Alagna) [2006]

Close

The Sicilian-French tenor simply has an intense spirit that few singers can match … this staging of Leoncavallo's one-act wonder is traditional but stylish and holds tension from beginning to end. The orchestra is supple under Vjekoslav Sutej, the chorus particularly engaged, and the small band of traveling commedia dell'arte actors is well cast, visually and vocally. But the opera soars because of Alagna. As Canio, he is a man possessed. In the opening scene, he is virile and energetic, singing "Un tal gioco" with a seething anger that suggests he already suspects Nedda has betrayed him. His voice is positively radiant, especially in the climactic exclamation of the time of the show – just the sort of vocal brightness Canio needs to keep from sinking into complete darkness. But just as impressive is Alagna's submersion in the role. One can almost believe he has become Canio … his voice retains its brilliant hue and full character. Svetla Vassileva's Nedda is equally believable, a well-rounded portrayal that finds her mastering coquettishness, anger, passion and defiance with skill. Her lyrical voice is never without dramatic direction. Alberto Mastromarino channels sliminess as Tonio, but his husky timbre is marvelous … The videography is generally excellent, with sharp camera angels and smooth transitions …
Andrew Druckenbrod, Opera News (New York)

×

Leoncavallo - Pagliacci (Vjekoslav Šutej, Roberto Alagna) [2006]

Close