Recorded live at the Théâtre Royal de la Monnaie in Brussels in 2007, Robert Lepage's interpretation of Igor Stravinky's 1951 opera successfully changes the setting from 18th-century London to 1950s Hollywood/Vegas (which makes sense, given the fact that Stravinsky was enamored with American popular culture). Adhering to the W.H. Auden/Chester Kallman libretto—based on the famous titular series of prints by artist William Hogarth—the story follows the progress of Tom Rakewell, who succumbs to the Faustian wiles of Nick Shadow, abandons the steadfast Anne Trulove for fast times in the world of entertainment, and finally winds up in a Bedlamesque asylum. Lepage's brilliant conception works on every level, beginning with an extraordinary, well-matched cast—with Laura Claycomb as Trulove, Andrew Kennedy as Rakewell, and William Shimell as Shadow—who ably execute the numerous duets and ensemble pieces of this neoclassical score, which is performed under the insightful baton of Kazushi Ono, leading the Chorus and Symphony Orchestra of La Monnaie. In addition, Carl Fillion's wildly imaginative sets enhance the dramatic elements with wit and panache, while the technical qualities are superb (with excellent cinematic camerawork and sterling sound in DTS and LCPM stereo). DVD extras include an interview with Lepage, a cast gallery, an illustrated synopsis, and storyboards. A colorful and gripping piece of theater, this is highly recommended. Editor's Choice. Aud: C, P. (J. Reed)
The Rake's Progress
(2007) 2 discs. 174 min. DVD: $39.99 (booklet included). Opus Arte (dist. by Naxos of America). Volume 23, Issue 4
The Rake's Progress
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