Movie spotlight
Don Pasquale
This John Dexter production, designed by Desmond Heeley, was a parting gift to the great American soprano Beverly Sills, who bid farewell to the Met as Norina, the smart young widow at the center of Donizetti’s comedy. The sensational Alfredo Kraus sings her beloved Ernesto. Håkan Hagegård, in his Met debut role and season, is Dr. Malatesta, the man who helps the young couple trick the crusty old bachelor of the title (Gabriel Bacquier at his comical best) into a fake marriage. This being a Donizetti comedy, it all turns out perfectly well at the end—and getting there is pure operatic fun.
Insights
Plot Summary
In this opera buffa, the aging bachelor Don Pasquale decides to marry a young woman to spite his nephew, Ernesto, who refuses to marry a wealthy heiress. Pasquale is tricked by his doctor into marrying the "virtuous" Norina, who is secretly in love with Ernesto. Norina then proceeds to make Don Pasquale's life miserable with her extravagant spending and shrewish behavior, ultimately convincing him to annul the marriage and reunite with Ernesto.
Critical Reception
Jean-Pierre Ponnelle's 1979 film adaptation of Donizetti's 'Don Pasquale' is widely celebrated for its witty direction and superb cast. The production is noted for its vibrant visual style and the seamless integration of comedic performance with the operatic score, making it accessible and enjoyable for both opera aficionados and newcomers.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its sharp comedic timing and Ponnelle's imaginative staging.
The vocal performances are consistently strong, bringing the characters to life.
Visually rich and an accessible entry point into the opera buffa genre.
Google audience: Audience reception for this specific film adaptation is not widely documented on Google reviews.
Fun Fact
This production was filmed on location in a historic Italian villa, adding to its authentic and visually rich aesthetic.
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