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Iphigénie en Tauride
The eighteenth century German composer Christoph Willibald Gluck strove for the ideal of pairing poetry - in its purest form - with operatic score, an end he came closest to achieving with his 1779 opera Iphigeneia in Tauris (Iphigénie en Tauride). The story recounts the nearly fatal brother-sister relationship, its ultimate reconciliation, and the eventual Scythian-Greek truce as achieved by the intervening hand of the goddess Diana. The home video release Iphigenie en Tauride contains a film of a live performance of the work, as mounted by the Opernhaus Zurich in 2001. Claus Guth directs for the stage, with a cast that includes Juliette Galstian as Iphigenia, Rodney Gilfry as Orestes and Martina Janková as Diana. The Zurich Opera's Orchestra La Scintilla and the Chorus of the Opernhaus Zurich provide musical accompaniment.
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Plot Summary
This opera, set in ancient Greece, follows Iphigénie, who is sacrificed by her father Agamemnon but miraculously saved and brought to Tauris. There, she serves as a priestess. Her brother Orestes arrives, pursued by the Furies for his matricide, and is captured. Iphigénie recognizes him and must devise a plan to escape with him and his companion Pylades back to Greece, defying the barbaric King Thoas.
Critical Reception
Jérôme Savary's production of 'Iphigénie en Tauride' was generally well-received, particularly for its musical direction and the performances of its lead singers. Critics often highlighted the emotional depth brought to Gluck's score and the compelling dramatic interpretations on stage. The staging aimed for a blend of historical context and theatrical flair, appealing to both opera aficionados and those new to the work.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its powerful vocal performances, especially from Anne-Sofie von Otter.
Commended for its insightful musical direction and faithful rendition of Gluck's score.
Noted for a visually engaging production that balanced historical elements with theatricality.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this specific 2001 production is not readily available.
Fun Fact
This production features a notable cast with Anne-Sofie von Otter in the title role, an acclaimed mezzo-soprano known for her interpretations of Baroque and Classical repertoire.
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