If you don't mind modern costumes, bizarre sets (mixing geometric patterns and flashing numbers), and a concept that situates the action in a commerce-dominated world where some of the characters appear to be half-cyborg, this 2013 Bayreuth Festival production represents a superb realization of Richard Wagner's 1843 opera about redemption through love. The orchestra and chorus perform with phenomenal energy and richness for conductor Christian Thielemann, while Ricarda Merbeth is amazingly powerful vocally as Senta, who sacrifices herself to free the Dutchman (Samuel Youn, who very nearly matches Merbeth) from the curse that compels him to endlessly sail. The rest of the cast—Franz-Josef Selig as Senta's father, Daland; Tomislav Mužek as her suitor, Erik; and Benjamin Bruns as the Steersman—are also outstanding. In fact, the musical side is so strong that many will go along with the peculiarities in Jan Philipp Gloger's staging, which include setting the spinning scene in Act II in what looks like an electric fan factory, where female choristers are assembly-line workers. This version offers solid competition to the 2010 Netherlands Opera mounting (VL-9/11)—another successful modernist take on the tale—although traditionalists should look elsewhere. Presented in DTS-5.1 (DTS-HD 5.1 on the Blu-ray release) and LPCM stereo, extras include interviews with cast and crew, and a cast gallery. Highly recommended. (F. Swietek)
Der Fliegende Holländer
(2013) 140 min. In German w/English subtitles. DVD: $29.99, Blu-ray: $39.99. Opus Arte (dist. by Naxos of America). Volume 29, Issue 6
Der Fliegende Holländer
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