Emperor Joseph II commissioned Mozart to compose this opera based on a contemporary scandal, resulting in a slightly naughty and utterly appealing confection that titillated 18th-century Viennese society. In a nutshell: Don Alfonso challenges Ferrando and Guglielmo to test their sweethearts' virtue by donning disguises and courting the other's lover; after many amusing encounters, the women succumb, only to discover the truth on their wedding day. All ends happily, however, with the original pairs reconciled, because, hey, cosi fan tutte (women are like that). The plot's mischief provides the opportunity for sprightly interaction and nonstop, delectable ensemble singing, and this 1975 performance from Glyndebourne Festival offers up a charming traditional production in which the sum is greater than the parts. A very young cast--Helena Doese and Sylvia Lindenstrand as Fiordiligi and Dorabella; Anson Austin and Thomas Allen as Ferrando and Guglielmo, and Daniele Perriers as the maid Despina--display varying levels of ease, with only the experienced Frantz Petri as Don Alfonso truly comfortable on stage. But never mind: it's in the ensemble singing that they really shine, under the able musical backing of John Pritchard conducting the London Philharmonic and Glyndebourne Chorus. If you can overlook some creaky production values (un-nuanced lighting, slightly hollow sound), this version--presented in PCM stereo--offers a jolly good time. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (J. Reed)
Cosi Fan Tutte
(1975) 158 min. In Italian w/English subtitles. DVD: $19.99 (booklet included). Arthaus Musik (dist. by Naxos of America). Color cover. Volume 20, Issue 1
Cosi Fan Tutte
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