Description

Excelsior by Luigi Manzotti – Teatro alla Scala (DVD)

UPC: 807280711592

Product Features

Title: Excelsior – Ballet in Two Parts and 11 Scenes
Music: Romualdo Marenco (revised by Fiorenzo Carpi & Bruno Nicolai)
Choreography: Ugo Dell’Ara
Conductor: David Coleman
Orchestra and Corps de Ballet: Teatro alla Scala
Running Time: 120 minutes
Picture Format: 16:9 NTSC
Audio Formats:Subtitles: Introduction in English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, Chinese
- PCM Stereo
- Dolby Digital 5.1
- DTS 5.1
Region Code: 0 (All regions)
Publisher: Arthaus Musik

Overview

Experience the spectacular revival of Excelsior, a grand 19th-century ballet that celebrates the triumph of progress and enlightenment over ignorance and superstition. This dazzling performance was captured live at Teatro alla Scala in 2002 and stars some of the most prominent ballet dancers, including Roberto Bolle, Marta Romagna, and Riccardo Massimi. Directed by Tina Protasoni for television, this release brings the grandeur and precision of this historic ballet into your home.

The ballet was originally choreographed by Luigi Manzotti and set to the vibrant score of Romualdo Marenco, with a revised version presented by Fiorenzo Carpi and Bruno Nicolai. The production features exquisite set and costume designs by Giulio Coltellacci, providing a rich visual spectacle that complements the lively and dramatic choreography. Under the baton of David Coleman, the Orchestra and Corps de Ballet of the Teatro alla Scala deliver a flawless performance, illustrating the spirit of optimism and progress that defines the ballet.

Cast

Light: Marta Romagna
Obscurantism: Riccardo Massimi
Civilisation: Isabel Seabra
Slave: Roberto Bolle
Thunderbolt: Raffaella Benaglia
Indian: Elisabetta Armiato

Interesting Facts

Excelsior, first performed in 1881, is a celebration of human ingenuity, focusing on the advances of science, electricity, and transportation. It was an enormous success in its day, widely regarded as a patriotic and technological tribute to progress.
Roberto Bolle, one of the leading ballet dancers of his generation, brings athleticism and grace to the role of the Slave, a central figure who symbolizes the liberation from ignorance.
The production was beautifully directed for television by Tina Protasoni, ensuring that every aspect of the performance is captured in high-definition for a full theatrical experience at home.
The sets and costumes by Giulio Coltellacci help recreate the grandeur of the original production, further enhancing the themes of light and progress.