Movie spotlight
Semele
Opera superstar Cecilia Bartoli offers her first operatic release on DVD in 12 years, and also her first opera in English. Bartoli stars as Semele (a role usually taken by a soprano) in Handel s late opera, which features such well-known arias as Endless pleasure, endless love, Myself I shall adore, and Oh sleep, why dost though leave me? Robert Carsen s stylish modern dress production hints at parallels with the problematic relationship between the late Princess Diana and the British Royal Family. Recorded live at the Zurich Opera House in January, 2007.
Insights
Plot Summary
Handel's "Semele" is an opera seria that tells the tragic story of Semele, a mortal woman who captures the attention of Jupiter, king of the gods. Her ambition and desire for divine status lead her to demand Jupiter appear in his full godly glory, a sight that proves too powerful for a mortal to behold. The opera explores themes of love, lust, ambition, and the consequences of hubris.
Critical Reception
Robert Carsen's production of Handel's "Semele" has been widely acclaimed for its intelligent direction, stunning visual design, and the powerful vocal performances of its cast. It is considered a benchmark production that brilliantly brings the Baroque opera to life for contemporary audiences, highlighting its dramatic and emotional depth.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its masterful direction and visually striking stagecraft.
Commended for its strong vocal performances, particularly the leads.
Lauded for its insightful interpretation of Handel's complex score.
Google audience: N/A
Fun Fact
This particular production of "Semele" was filmed for distribution and has been presented in cinemas worldwide, making it one of the more widely accessible opera performances on film.
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