Description
George Frideric Handel: Xerxes - English National Opera 1988 DVD
UPC: 807280007794
Product Features
- Composer: George Frideric Handel
- Opera: Xerxes (Serse)
- Lead Performers:Conductor: Charles Mackerras
- Xerxes: Ann Murray
- Romilda: Valerie Masterson
- Arsamenes: Christopher Robson
- Amastris: Jean Rigby
- Atalanta: Lesley Garrett
- Elviro: Christopher Booth-Jones
- Ariodates: Rodney Macann
- Stage Director: Nicholas Hytner
- Set Designer: David Fielding
- Lighting Designer: Paul Pyant
- Chorus Master: Martin Handley
- Orchestra & Chorus: English National Opera
- Sound Format: PCM Stereo
- Picture Format: 4:3
- Region Code: 0 (Region-Free)
- Subtitles: German, French, English, Spanish, Italian, Dutch, Greek
- Running Time: 186 minutes
- DVD Format: NTSC
- Year of Recording: 1988
- Publisher: Arthaus Musik, a StudioCanal Group Company
Overview
This DVD presents the critically acclaimed production of George Frideric Handel's Xerxes, performed by the English National Opera in 1988. Xerxes, or Serse in Italian, is a baroque opera known for its rich character development, intricate arias, and the famous opening aria "Ombra mai fu."
Under the baton of the legendary Charles Mackerras, this performance brings together a stellar cast, including Ann Murray in the title role of Xerxes, Valerie Masterson as Romilda, and Lesley Garrett as Atalanta. Directed by Nicholas Hytner, this production is celebrated for its imaginative staging and faithful interpretation of Handel's work, presented here in English.
The production was filmed and directed for television by John Michael Phillips, capturing the dynamic staging and the detailed performances of the English National Opera's Orchestra and Chorus. This DVD is a treasure for fans of baroque opera, offering a chance to experience one of Handel's masterpieces performed by some of the finest voices of the era.
Interesting Facts
- Ann Murray is renowned for her performances in the trouser roles of Handel's operas, with her portrayal of Xerxes being one of the highlights of her career.
- Charles Mackerras was a pivotal figure in the revival of baroque opera in the 20th century. His edition of Xerxes and his leadership in this production are widely praised.
- Nicholas Hytner, who provided the English translation and directed the stage production, is known for his later work as the director of the National Theatre in London.
- Lesley Garrett, who plays Atalanta, is one of Britain's most beloved sopranos, known for her versatility in both classical and popular music genres.
Track Listing
- Xerxes (Serse) – George Frideric Handel
- Act 1: Introduction and Aria "Ombra mai fu"
- Act 1: Recitative and Aria "Frondi tenere"
- Act 2: Aria "Se bramate d'amar"
- Act 2: Recitative and Duet "Ombra cara"
- Act 3: Recitative and Aria "Se bramate d'amar"
- Act 3: Finale
Publishers
- Arthaus Musik
- Thames Television
- RM Arts
Hashtags
#GeorgeFridericHandel #XerxesOpera #AnnMurray #EnglishNationalOpera #BaroqueOpera #CharlesMackerras #NicholasHytner #ClassicalMusicDVD #OperaInEnglish #ArthausMusik
