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Vivaldi Orlando Furioso
For those with any interest in Vivaldi's operas Orlando Furioso is essential viewing, being a 1989 San Francisco Opera revival by Pier Luigi Pizzi of his own 1979 production which was largely responsible for beginning modern interest in Vivaldi's stage work. The composer first premiered Orlando finto pazzo in 1714, but the Orlando Furioso finalised in 1727 was so heavily reworked as to be virtually an entirely new opera, and so successful Handel set the same epic poem by Aristo under the title Alcina in 1735.
Insights
Plot Summary
This is a filmed production of Antonio Vivaldi's opera 'Orlando Furioso,' based on Ludovico Ariosto's epic poem. The opera tells the story of the knight Orlando's madness and recovery, intertwined with themes of love, war, and enchantment.
Critical Reception
As a filmed opera, reception tends to focus on the production's staging, Vivaldi's musical interpretation, and the vocal performances. Reviews often praise the historical significance of the work and Vivaldi's characteristic musical energy.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its vibrant musicality and Vivaldi's masterful use of Baroque conventions.
Appreciated for its faithful staging of a significant, though lesser-known, Vivaldi opera.
Often highlighted for its dramatic intensity and the skill of the performers in bringing the complex narrative to life.
Google audience: Audience reviews for filmed opera productions are typically scarce and difficult to aggregate. For 'Vivaldi Orlando Furioso,' general sentiment often revolves around the appreciation for Vivaldi's energetic compositions and the dramatic impact of the staged performance.
Fun Fact
Vivaldi's 'Orlando Furioso' was written for a female soprano in the title role of Orlando, a common practice in Baroque opera where male roles were often taken by castrati or women.
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