Otello

Over the years, Placido Domingo has professionally grown in the title role of Giuseppe Verdi's Otello, the tragic tale of the Moor of Venice who is deceived by the vengeful Iago and misled into murdering his beloved and loving wife, Desdemona. Beginning with the 1986 Franco Zeffirelli production and continuing with notable turns at Covent Garden in 1992 and at the Metropolitan Opera in 1996, Domingo's characterization of Othello is fully realized in this masterly performance recorded live in 2001 at Teatro alla Scala in Milan (a farewell production before the renovation of the legendary house). Boasting a simple but effective set, richly colorful costuming, and exquisite lighting that creates a painterly aura, this excellent production features Barbara Frittoli as an affecting, vulnerable Desdemona, and veteran performer Leo Nucci as Iago, with the cast sympathetically supported by the orchestra of Teatro alla Scala under the direction of Riccardo Muti. Presented with DTS 5.1, Dolby Digital 5.1 and PCM stereo options, this is highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (J. Reed)