Il Trovatore

Conductor-director Herbert von Karajan envisioned this 1978 Vienna State Opera production of Verdi's 1853 warhorse as a made-for-television event, which may explain the unusually strong emphasis on subtle performances rather than theatrical grandeur. Günther Schneider-Siemssen, in adapting the work for the small screen, boldly concentrates on close-ups and medium shots that rely almost exclusively on the power of the singers (rather than the production design) to carry the opera to its fullest. This strategy pays off beautifully, resulting in a work of emotional complexity that brings new life to this much-performed classic featuring infants switched at birth, a gypsy curse, two rivals vying for the same beautiful woman, and tragic melodramatic deaths. Karajan's direction brings forth a wealth of deeply defined performances, including those of Piero Cappuccilli as Il Conte di Luna and Raina Kabaivanska as Leonora. Plácido Domingo, not surprisingly, is wonderful as the troubadour Manrico, and his star power is strong enough to hide the fact that he was actually a last-minute substitute for the role (Franco Bonisolli, the original Manrico, walked off after a disastrous public dress rehearsal). Presented in Dolby Digital 5.1 and PCM stereo, this rewarding offering is highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (P. Hall)