Dove è Amore è Gelosia

Capturing the first modern revival of a comic opera by Giuseppe Scarlatti (1720–1777), nephew of the famous keyboard composer Domenico, this rare 2011 production tries to replicate the conditions of the initial 1768 performance: presented on a candlelit stage, with original instruments, at the recently renovated theater of Ceský Krumlov Castle in southern Bohemia (described as the sole authentic baroque-era venue of its kind in operation today), and employing 18th-century props and effects. The castle was also where the work had its only previous performance, commissioned by the Duke of Krumlov for the wedding of his son. A small-scaled domestic comedy written for four singers, the plot hinges on the jealousy of Count Orazio (Aleš Briscein) and the subsequent refusal of his intended, Clarice (Lenka Máciková), to marry him until he comes to trust her, coupled with the parallel courtship of their two servants, Vespetta (Katerina Knežíková) and Patrizio (Jaroslav Brezina). A charming if also ephemeral piece, the opera—which translates as “where there's love, there's jealousy”—is nicely performed by the Schwarzenberg Court Orchestra under Vojtech Spurný. Presented in DTS 5.1 (DTS-HD 5.1 on the Blu-ray edition) and LPCM stereo, extras include a behind-the-scenes documentary, and a cast gallery. For both historical and musical reasons, this is highly recommended. (F. Swietek)