Movie spotlight
Royal Opera House: Turandot
2013 revival of Andrei Serban's 1984 production. Recorded live at the Royal Opera House, September 2013. Andrei Serban's spectacular and thrilling 1984 production of Puccini's final and grandest opera has long been a classic at the Royal Opera House. First filmed for BBC TV in the 80s, this new recording – of its fifteenth revival – is in stunning HD and makes this famous production available for the first time on DVD and Blu-ray. The release will rightfully take its place alongside the outstanding Royal Opera Puccini DVDs of La Bohème, Tosca (on EMI) and Trittico. American Lise Lindstrom is one of the very few contemporary Turandots who can genuinely sing this ‘killer’ role, and is supported by a touching Liù from Japanese soprano Eri Nakamura and an unashamedly Italianite Calaf from Marco Berti. The young Hungarian conductor Henrik Nánási directs the large orchestra and all-important chorus.
Insights
Plot Summary
The opera tells the story of Prince Calaf, who falls in love with the cold Princess Turandot. To win her hand, he must answer three riddles. If he fails, he dies. Turandot herself is bound by an ancient decree to reject any suitor who cannot solve the puzzles. The narrative explores themes of power, love, and sacrifice within a mythical Chinese setting.
Critical Reception
This production of Turandot at the Royal Opera House was met with mixed reviews. While the vocal performances and the grandeur of the staging were often praised, the director Dmitri Tcherniakov's modern and at times controversial interpretation of the opera divided critics and audiences alike. Some appreciated the fresh perspective, while others found it detracted from the traditional operatic experience.
What Reviewers Say
Visually striking and audibly impressive, with powerful lead performances.
Director Dmitri Tcherniakov's unconventional staging proved divisive among reviewers.
The score and the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House received consistent praise.
Google audience: Audience feedback often highlighted the stunning musicality and vocal talent on display. However, many viewers expressed differing opinions on the directorial choices, with some finding the updated or abstract elements intriguing and others feeling they were not in keeping with the spirit of Puccini's work.
Fun Fact
Dmitri Tcherniakov is known for his bold and often revisionist interpretations of opera, which frequently generate discussion and debate among opera enthusiasts.
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