Luisa Miller, a three-act tragic melodrama dating from 1849, may not be one of Verdi's mature masterpiece operas, but it still retains a foothold in the repertory, though obviously not so firm a one as Rigoletto or La Traviata. The narrative is pure formula: Rodolfo, the son of a duke, is romantically involved (under an assumed identity) with a commoner named Luisa Miller, but ends up killing both her and himself after he becomes convinced she's been unfaithful to him (even though both principals are actually being compelled to marry others). But the music exhibits both an emotional depth and richness that attest to the composer's style and range. This 2006 performance at the Teatro La Fenice in Venice is decent, overall, with especially strong work from conductor Maurizio Benini, who shapes the music beautifully with both vitality and sensitivity. Unfortunately, the singing is variable: Darina Takova improves after a wobbly start in the title role, but Giuseppe Sabbatini sounds consistently rough and worn as her secret noble lover, and the supporting cast is merely adequate. The stark set, largely vacant except for oversized pillars with the characters' images on them, doesn't leave much of an impression either. Presented in Dolby Digital 5.0, DTS, and stereo, this is an optional purchase. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek)
Luisa Miller
(2006) 2 discs. 158 min. In Italian w/English subtitles. DVD: $45.98. Naxos of America. Volume 23, Issue 4
Luisa Miller
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