Lucrezia Borgia

This 2009 live performance of Donizetti's Lucrezia Borgia by the Bayerische Staatsoper at the National Theater in Munich is a showcase for renowned coloratura soprano Edita Gruberova, still in formidable voice after more than 40 years of performing. Directed for the stage by Christof Loy with conducting duties handled by Bertrand de Billy, this particular version is minimalist in production: the set consists of white letters spelling “Lucrezia Borgia” and occasional use of portable chairs, but it's effective nevertheless, since the opera depends more on personal drama than physical action—Lucrezia rescues a long lost son from poisoning only to inadvertently cause his death in the same manner—with the end result being that performance trumps décor. Gruberova lives up to her reputation for stunning command of the bel canto technique and is surrounded by an exceptional cast, including Pavol Breslik as the son, Gennaro; Franco Vassallo as Don Alfonso, the jealous spouse; and Alice Coote in the trouser role of Maffio Orsini. Although the diva has her detractors and her final aria its critics, one can argue that any singing breaks here were meant for dramatic effect, and the tumultuous applause seems to confirm this view. A welcome improvement over the previously reviewed 2007 offering from the Teatro Donizetti in Bergamo, Italy (VL-5/09), this is a must for Gruberova's devoted fans, who will also enjoy the fine biographical extra, “The Art of Bel Canto: Edita Gruberova.” Presented in DTS 5.1, Dolby Digital 5.1, and PCM stereo, this is highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (J. Reed)