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The Metropolitan Opera: Iphigénie en Tauride
Gluck’s gripping adaptation of the ancient Greek myth is vividly brought to life by a stellar cast in Stephen Wadsworth’s atmospheric production. Oreste is driven by the Furies to atone for killing his mother Clytemnestre. When he and his companion Pylade are shipwrecked on the island of Tauride, the king Thoas demands they be sacrificed. At the center of the drama is Iphigénie, Oreste’s long-lost sister. Forced to live among her enemies, she holds the lives of the captives in her hands—unaware that one of them is her brother. (Iphigénie en Tauride is performed in an adaptation of the 1779 Paris version edited by Gerhard Croll, by arrangement with Bärenreiter.)
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Plot Summary
This production of Gluck's opera 'Iphigénie en Tauride' follows the story of Iphigénie, who, after sacrificing her sister, is now a priestess in Tauris. Her brother Orestes arrives, pursued by the Furies for the murder of their mother. Iphigénie recognizes Orestes and must choose between her duty and her family, ultimately leading to a confrontation with the barbarian king Thoas.
Critical Reception
The 2011 Metropolitan Opera production of 'Iphigénie en Tauride' was lauded for its powerful vocal performances, particularly Susan Graham as Iphigénie and Plácido Domingo as Orestes. The staging effectively conveyed the opera's dramatic intensity and emotional depth, resonating well with both critics and audiences.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for the star power and vocal prowess of its leads, Susan Graham and Plácido Domingo.
The production was noted for its compelling dramatic interpretation and the effective staging.
Recognized as a strong revival of a classic Gluck opera.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this specific broadcast is not readily available.
Fun Fact
Plácido Domingo, renowned for his tenor roles, performed the role of Orestes, a baritone part, in this production, showcasing his vocal versatility.
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