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Cilea - Adriana Lecouvreur - Caballe, Cossotto, Carreras (NHK 1976)
An all-star cast led by soprano Montserrat Caballé in one of her most acclaimed portrayals. Fiorenza Cossotto sings the role of Adriana’s nemesis, the Princess of Bouillon, and José Carreras is Adriana’s lover, Maurizio, in this live 1976 performance from Tokyo. The NHK Symphony Orchestra is under the direction of Gianfranco Masini. This performance of Adriana Lecouvreur documents the art of Montserrat Caballé at its peak, the soprano employing her singularly ravishing vocal quality and staggering technical facility fully in the service of the drama. In her portrayal of the title character - described in the opera as a supreme tragedienne, self-trained and completely artless - Caballé matches Adriana's attributes with a naturalistic approach that is profoundly moving in its honesty and directness. This production also boasts the presence of Fiorenza Cossotto and José Carreras, stars of the highest caliber with whom Caballé performed this opera on many occasions all over the world.
Insights
Plot Summary
Set in 18th-century Paris, the opera tells the story of Adriana Lecouvreur, a celebrated actress and singer who falls in love with Count Maurice de Saxe. Her affections are complicated by the jealousy of the Princess de Bouillon, who is also involved with the Count. The rivalry between the two women escalates, leading to tragic consequences as Adriana becomes the target of the Princess's vengeful schemes.
Critical Reception
This particular 1976 broadcast performance featuring Montserrat Caballé is highly regarded among opera enthusiasts for its stellar cast and Caballé's iconic portrayal of the title role. While the opera itself is a staple of the repertoire, this recording is often cited as a benchmark for its vocal performances and dramatic interpretation.
What Reviewers Say
Montserrat Caballé delivers a tour-de-force performance as Adriana, showcasing her legendary vocal technique and dramatic sensitivity.
Fiorenza Cossotto provides a formidable and vocally rich portrayal of the Princess de Bouillon.
José Carreras and Sesto Bruscantini offer strong support in their respective roles, enhancing the dramatic tension.
Google audience: Audience reception for this specific recording is overwhelmingly positive, with particular praise for Montserrat Caballé's interpretation of the title character. Viewers frequently highlight the vocal brilliance of the entire cast and the emotional depth of the performance.
Awards & Accolades
While specific awards for this broadcast are not widely documented, the opera 'Adriana Lecouvreur' has been performed and recorded numerous times, earning critical acclaim for its leading interpreters throughout its history.
Fun Fact
Montserrat Caballé's performance as Adriana Lecouvreur is considered one of her signature roles, and this 1976 broadcast is a cherished document of her artistry in capturing the character's vulnerability and passion.
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