Boris Godunov

Modest Mussorgsky's opera receives a lavish, imaginative interpretation in this 2014 production from Bulgaria's Sofia Opera and Ballet. Director/producer/stage designer Plamen Kartaloff presents Boris Godunov in an open air setting in front of Sofia's towering Aleksandr Nevsky Cathedral, filling the stage with an opulent parade of grandly costumed figures from monarchical and religious hierarchies, serving up a visual feast worthy of conductor Konstantin Chudovski's command of Mussorgsky's towering music. Martin Tsonev dominates as the conflicted tsar Boris, exhibiting a physical majesty worthy of a 16th-century ruler coupled with strong vocalism as he displays a deep emotional understanding of the internal and external challenges torturing Boris. As the charlatan that tries to usurp the throne by pretending to be Boris's murdered son, Kostadin Andreev effectively creates a villain who is reprehensible yet also all-too-human in his desire to steal undeserved authority. In many ways, the real star of the show is the sacred landmark that serves as the backdrop to Kartaloff's vision for Boris Godunov: as darkness fills the evening air, the cathedral is boldly illuminated, doubling for various Kremlin landmarks that serve as background for defining moments in Boris's reluctant rise and harrowing fall. Presented in PCM stereo, this is highly recommended. (P. Hall)