Luisa Fernanda

Loosely defined, zarzuela is light opera, distinctly Spanish in character, which combines spoken material with colorful music, high emotion, and political intrigue. In the 20th century, Federico Moreno Torroba brought fresh energy to the genre when he composed the well-known and beloved Luisa Fernanda, presenting a love triangle set against the political turmoil of 19th-century Madrid. The artists here have a special affinity for the material: in 1946, the mother and father of star Plácido Domingo were famous in the leading roles (and toured with Torroba), while the orchestra of the Madrid Teatro Real under Jesús López Cobos shows particular warmth and sensitivity to the music of their native land. Literally following in his father's footsteps, Domingo assumes the baritone role of Vidal Hernando, an Extremaduran landowner who switches political loyalties to vie with the dashing Cavalier Javier Moreno (Jóse Bros) for the affections of the aristocratic Luisa Fernanda (Nancy Herrera). Recorded live at the Teatro Real de Madrid in 2006, this is a handsome production with a minimal set and stark black-and-white costumes that form a fine contrast to the warmth of the music. Presented in DTS and LPCM stereo, DVD extras include a synopsis, interviews, and a cast gallery. Highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (J. Reed)