Turandot

This 2013 production of Puccini's final opera from the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden is presented with the standard version of the score (completed by Franco Alfano), but is actually a revival of Andrei Serban's utterly traditional 1984 staging—newly directed here with little imagination by Andrew Sinclair. The sets and costumes remain impressive, but musically this is somewhat uneven. Lise Lindstrom possesses exactly the right sort of powerful and clear soprano voice to personify the cruel Chinese princess who uses riddles to condemn her suitors to death—and she masterfully conveys her character's steely resolve. Unfortunately, she's paired with beefy Marco Berti, whose performance as Calaf—the man who eventually outwits Turandot and earns her love—hasn't improved much since his appearance in the Valencia production (VL-3/10). His tenor has the proper timbre but sounds oddly strained, and his acting is virtually nonexistent. The supporting cast is excellent (with Eri Nakamura a lovely, fragile Liù), and Henrik Nánási conducts smartly. If only it boasted a better Calaf, this would have been a stronger contender in a curiously weak field. Presented in DTS 5.1 and LPCM stereo on DVD and Blu-ray, extras include a brief introduction to the opera, a behind-the scenes featurette, and a cast gallery. As good a performance as most that are currently available, this is recommended, overall. (F. Swietek)