Giuseppe Verdi's very first staged opera—circa 1839, when the composer was only 26 years old—is rarely mounted nowadays, and this 2007 performance from the Bilbao Festival illustrates why that's unlikely to change. The production is better than one might expect from an essentially provincial group: the orchestra plays well under Yves Abel's baton, while the singing is more than acceptable (though the men are stronger than the women, who tend to be unduly cautious). Ignacio García's staging is rather static, but that's more because the libretto lacks action—not to mention little in the way of drama or even sense. Riccardo, a 13th-century Italian nobleman, seduces Leonora, who's swiftly disowned by her father Oberto, a deposed count. Oberto and Leonora conspire to tell Riccardo's intended, Cuniza, of his infidelity, which compels her to call off the nuptials. Riccardo then kills Oberto in a duel, only to suffer pangs of conscience that result in his leaving Italy and both women behind. The music is pleasant if basically formulaic—sounding rather like lesser Donizetti—but reveals that even at an early age Verdi was a competent craftsman, writing arias, duets, and ensembles that are expertly constructed if not particularly memorable. Featuring fluent camerawork and excellent sound (with DTS surround and LPCM stereo options), Oberto is hardly must-see opera, but it's still a good choice for collections looking to fill out the repertoire, and devotees of Verdi will certainly appreciate it. DVD extras include an illustrated synopsis, cast gallery, and brief interviews with Abel and Garcìa. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek)
Oberto
(2007) 152 min. In Italian w/English subtitles. DVD: $32.98 (booklet included). Opus Arte (dist. by Naxos of America). Volume 23, Issue 1
Oberto
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