Turandot

Opera fans should rejoice over the DVD debut of this stunning filmed performance of the Vienna State Opera's 1983 production of Turandot. Conceived for the stage by Broadway musical director Harold Prince, this iridescent interpretation of the Puccini opera unfolds with a visceral intellectual and spiritual energy. The production design is innovative: the antiquated Oriental approach of so many mountings of Turandot is here replaced with a location-neutral but style-rich environment that boldly reaffirms the universality of the story, while the cast wear elaborate masks and glittering costumes that ultimately enhance the raw emotions of this tale of loyalty, cruelty, and love. Blessed with extraordinary performances by Jose Carreras as Calaf (who performs what might be the definitive version of the aria “Nessun dorma!”), Katia Ricciarelli as the doomed Liu, and Eva Marton as the evil titular princess—all backed by the Chor und Orchester der Wiener Staatsoper under the baton of Lorin Maazel—this Turandot (presented in LCPM stereo) is outstanding. Highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (P. Hall)