Description

Bizet - Carmen | Hardy Classic Video DVD

UPC: 801675040130

Product Features

Composer: Georges Bizet
Conductor: Nino Sanzogno
Starring:Orchestra and Chorus: Orchestra e Coro di Milano della RAI
- Carmen: Belén Amparán
- Don José: Franco Corelli
- Escamillo: Anselmo Colzani
- Micaela: Elda Ribetti
- Frasquita: Rena Gary-Falachi
- Mercedes: Mitì Truccato Pace
- Zuniga: Antonio Cassinelli
- Dancairo: Antonio Sacchetti
- Remendado: Vittorio Pandano
- Morales: Enzo Pieri
Directed by: Franco Enriquez
Running Time: Approx. 143 minutes
Audio Format: Dolby Digital 1.0 Mono
Picture Format: 4:3, Black & White, NTSC
Subtitles: English, French
Region Code: 0 (All Regions)
Label: Hardy Classic Video

Overview

This historic 1956 performance of Georges Bizet's Carmen is a treasure from the archives of RAI Milano, featuring a stellar cast led by Belén Amparán as Carmen and Franco Corelli as Don José. Recorded on June 13, 1956, this production captures the timeless passion and drama of one of the world’s most beloved operas.

Conducted by Nino Sanzogno, the Orchestra e Coro di Milano della RAI delivers Bizet’s thrilling score with intensity and precision. The production is directed by Franco Enriquez, offering a traditional yet engaging portrayal of the tragic love story between Carmen and Don José. Sung in Italian, this version of Carmen brings a fresh cultural perspective to Bizet’s French masterpiece.

This black-and-white recording, with its raw energy and historic significance, is a must-watch for fans of classic opera, especially those who admire the legendary Franco Corelli in one of his most iconic roles.

Interesting Facts

Franco Corelli is widely regarded as one of the greatest tenors of the 20th century, and his portrayal of Don José in this production has become a landmark performance in his career.
Belén Amparán, though lesser known today, delivers a fiery and captivating performance as Carmen, showcasing her powerful vocal and acting skills.
This performance of Carmen was recorded live in the RAI studios in Milan, offering a unique glimpse into mid-20th-century Italian television productions.
The opera is sung in Italian, using the translation by A. De Lauzières, which was common at the time for Italian opera houses.
The production features a strong supporting cast, including Anselmo Colzani as Escamillo and Elda Ribetti as Micaela, further adding to the performance’s authenticity and emotional depth.