Bernard Haitink, The Orchestra of the Royal Opera House - Verdi: Don Carlo (2005/1985)
NTSC 4:3 (720x480) | Italiano (Dolby AC3, 2 ch) | 7.14 Gb (DVD9) | 204 min
Classical | NVC Arts | Sub: English, Deutsch, Espanol, Francais, Italiano, Portugues, Japanese
NTSC 4:3 (720x480) | Italiano (Dolby AC3, 2 ch) | 7.14 Gb (DVD9) | 204 min
Classical | NVC Arts | Sub: English, Deutsch, Espanol, Francais, Italiano, Portugues, Japanese
It’s a traditional production, in monumental sets. Haitink’s conducting is also on the monumental side, but it feels appropriate to the staging. It’s not insignificant that this production was last seen during Haitink’s farewell to the House in 2002. Luis Lima is a charming Carlos, a bit throaty, but there is an innocence about his acting that wins the audience over. Ileana Cotrubas’ Elisabetta is a wonderfully fragile one. Giorgio Zancanaro’s wonderfully aristocratic singing makes for an excellent Posa. Bruna Baglioni is a little matronly as Eboli, as are certain women in the chorus. Robert Lloyd is first and foremost a superlative actor. Philip’s response to Posa’s pleas are masterly, especially his eyes. (Mark Pullinger)