Movie spotlight
Händel: Rodelinda
Renée Fleming stars in the title role of one of Handel’s greatest dramas, seen in Stephen Wadsworth’s 2004 Met premiere production. Rodelinda is faced with an impossible dilemma: With her husband Bertarido believed dead, she either has to marry the despised Grimoaldo (the elegant Joseph Kaiser), who has usurped her husband’s throne, or see him murder her son. But Bertarido (leading countertenor Andreas Scholl) is alive and eventually reclaims both throne and wife—and makes peace with his enemies. Stephanie Blythe is marvelous as Eduige, Bertarido’s sister, who is betrothed to Grimoaldo but turns against him. Baroque authority Harry Bicket conducts.
Insights
Plot Summary
Set in 12th-century Lombardy, 'Rodolinda' tells the story of Queen Rodolinda, whose husband Bertarido has been overthrown and is presumed dead by his usurper, Grimoaldo. Rodolinda, forced to consider marrying Grimoaldo, remains loyal to Bertarido's memory. The opera unfolds through a series of dramatic confrontations, mistaken identities, and emotional duets as Bertarido attempts to reclaim his throne and reunite with his beloved queen.
Critical Reception
This production of Handel's 'Rodolinda' was highly praised for its sensitive direction, stellar cast, and masterful musical interpretation. Critics lauded the emotional depth and vocal prowess of the performers, particularly Dorothea Röschmann and Andreas Scholl, and the nuanced conducting of René Jacobs.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its emotionally resonant performances and superb vocal technique.
René Jacobs' conducting was lauded for its clarity and dramatic pacing.
The production's visual design and staging effectively complemented the opera's drama.
Google audience: Information not available for this specific opera production.
Fun Fact
Handel composed 'Rodolinda' in 1725 during a period of intense operatic competition in London, yet it quickly became one of his most frequently performed and successful operas.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources