Gaetano Donizetti: La Fille du Régiment - DVD 

UPC 809478040255

Product Features

• Composer: Gaetano Donizetti
• Performers: Joan Sutherland (Marie), Anson Austin (Tonio), Heather Begg (Marquise of Berkenfield), Gregory Yurisich (Sulpice)
• Conductor: Richard Bonynge
• Orchestra: The Elizabethan Sydney Orchestra
• Chorus: The Australian Opera Chorus
• Stage Director: Sandro Sequi
• Producer: Peter Butler
• Sound Producer: Judith Irvine
• Recorded: Live at the Sydney Opera House, 1986
• Publisher: Opus Arte (in association with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation)
• Sound Format: Stereo
• Picture Format: 4:3
• Subtitles: English
• Language: Sung in French
• Region Code: 0 (All Regions)
• Disc Format: NTSC
• Running Time: 119 minutes
• Cover Art: Ernie Gerzabek (Australian abstract artist)

Overview

Gaetano Donizetti's "La Fille du Régiment" is a lighthearted and energetic romantic comedy opera, brought to life in this 1986 performance at the Sydney Opera House starring the legendary Joan Sutherland. As Marie, Sutherland delivers a stunning vocal performance, her glittering soprano bringing a delightful charm to the character of the orphan raised by soldiers. Alongside Anson Austin as Tonio, her romantic counterpart, and Heather Begg as the Marquise of Berkenfield, the production blends humor, romance, and high musical artistry.

The story follows Marie, the adopted daughter of the French regiment, and her journey as she discovers her aristocratic roots. The regiment's heartbreak and her desire to return to the simple life she loves provide both comic and emotional moments in this memorable opera. Directed by Sandro Sequi and conducted by Richard Bonynge, the production is an acclaimed work in the history of Opera Australia.

Interesting Facts

• Joan Sutherland, one of the greatest sopranos of the 20th century, was affectionately known as "La Stupenda" for her unmatched vocal clarity and technique. This production of "La Fille du Régiment" showcases her virtuosic coloratura technique, particularly in the famous aria "Salut à la France" and her high Cs in "Ah! mes amis, quel jour de fête!".
• Richard Bonynge, Sutherland's husband and frequent collaborator, is renowned for his work with bel canto opera, and his direction here is as precise as it is heartfelt.
• The 1986 production was filmed for television and remains a treasured recording, capturing the vibrancy of a live performance at the Sydney Opera House.
• Heather Begg (Marquise of Berkenfield) was a celebrated mezzo-soprano, and her portrayal of the Marquise is both comedic and stately, balancing the lightheartedness of the plot.
• The production was filmed in association with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, ensuring high-quality video and sound, making it an essential recording for opera collectors.

Track Listing

1. Act I: Introduction of Marie and her connection with the regiment, meeting Tonio, and the arrival of the Marquise of Berkenfield.
2. Act II: Marie’s conflict between her new aristocratic life and her love for Tonio, culminating in a dramatic resolution.

Publishers

• Opus Arte
• Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC)
• Opera Australia

Hashtags

#LaFilleDuRegiment #JoanSutherland #RichardBonynge #SydneyOperaHouse #OperaAustralia #Donizetti #BelCanto #OperaDVD #ClassicOpera #FrenchOpera #AustralianOpera #OpusArte #CollectorsEdition #LiveOpera #RareDVD