Pique Dame

Like his better-known Eugene Onegin, Tchaikovsky's 1890 opera Pique Dame was adapted from a book by Pushkin, but is quite different in mood—dramatic rather than lyrical. The narrative centers on Hermann, a Russian army officer who, after wooing the lovely Lisa away from her noble fiancé, becomes obsessed with learning the secret of winning at cards possessed by Lisa's elderly grandmother, a countess who was once a famous gambler known as the Queen of Spades. Tragically, Hermann's quest leads to the death of both women and his own suicide. This commendable 2010 performance from the Gran Teatre del Liceu in Barcelona is a visually opulent production, with elaborate, colorful sets and extravagant costumes by William Orlandi. Under Michael Boder's baton, the company's orchestra delivers a vibrant account of the score, and Gilbert Deflo's staging, while not necessarily exciting, does eschew the sort of innovation that merely calls attention to itself (and boasts robust second-act dance sequences). Among the soloists, Misha Didyk cuts a rather stiff figure as Hermann, but sings well, while Emily Magee makes a lovely Lisa and veteran Ewa Podles a stunning countess. Presented in DTS 5.1 (DTS-HD 5.1 on the Blu-ray release) and LPCM stereo, extras include a cast gallery. Offering a solid version of an enjoyable work, this is recommended. (F. Swietek)