Description

Giuseppe Verdi's Falstaff – A Masterful Opera Performance on DVD

UPC: 8007144336493

Product Details:

Format: DVD
Composer: Giuseppe Verdi
Title: Falstaff
Libretto: Arrigo Boito, based on "The Merry Wives of Windsor" by William Shakespeare
Artists:Orchestra and Chorus: Opéra Royal de Wallonie
- Sir John Falstaff: Ruggero Raimondi
- Ford: Luca Salsi
- Mrs. Alice Ford: Virginia Tola
- Nannetta: Sabina Puértolas
- Mrs. Quickly: Cinzia De Mola
- Mrs. Meg Page: Liliana Mattei
- Fenton: Tiberius Simu
- Dr. Caius: Gregory Bonfatti
- Bardolfo: Pietro Picone
- Pistola: Luciano Montanaro
Conductor: Paolo Arrivabeni
Chorus Master: Marcel Seminara
Director, Set/Costume/Light Designer: Stefano Poda
Video Director: Matteo Ricchetti
Recording: Live at Palais Opéra de Liège, November 2009
Language: Sung in Italian
Subtitles: Not specified
Aspect Ratio: 16:9
Sound Formats: Linear PCM 2.0 Stereo, Dolby Digital Surround, DTS Surround
Running Time: Approx. 129 minutes
Region Code: 0 (All regions)
Format: NTSC
Publisher: Dynamic Srl
Production: A Dynamic and Rai Trade co-production (© 2010)

Product Features

Legendary Performance: Features renowned bass-baritone Ruggero Raimondi in the title role of Sir John Falstaff.
Exceptional Cast: Includes a stellar ensemble of international artists delivering captivating performances.
Innovative Direction: Directed by Stefano Poda, who also designed the set, costumes, and lighting, offering a cohesive and visionary staging.
High-Quality Recording: Captured live in high-definition video and superior audio formats for an immersive experience.
Authentic Interpretation: Conductor Paolo Arrivabeni leads the Orchestra and Chorus of the Opéra Royal de Wallonie with precision and insight.
Accessible Format: All-region DVD compatible with most DVD players worldwide.

Overview

Delve into the rich tapestry of Giuseppe Verdi's final opera, Falstaff, a comedic masterpiece that showcases the composer's brilliance in both orchestration and character development. This DVD presents a compelling live performance from the Opéra Royal de Wallonie, with the legendary Ruggero Raimondi embodying the complex character of Sir John Falstaff.

Adapted from William Shakespeare's "The Merry Wives of Windsor," Arrigo Boito's libretto skillfully preserves the original traits of Falstaff, presenting him not merely as a source of humor but as a multifaceted individual with a cynical outlook on life. Verdi's orchestration is vivid and nuanced, bringing to life the wit, charm, and underlying themes of the narrative.

Directed by Stefano Poda, who also crafted the set, costumes, and lighting, this production offers a visually stunning and cohesive interpretation of the opera. The performance is further elevated by the dynamic conducting of Paolo Arrivabeni and the exceptional contributions of the orchestra and chorus.

Interesting Facts

Verdi's Second Comedy: Falstaff is Verdi's last opera and only his second comedic work, the first being Un giorno di regno composed early in his career.
Shakespearean Influence: Verdi had a lifelong admiration for Shakespeare, and Falstaff represents his third opera based on the playwright's works, following Macbeth and Otello.
Innovative Composition: The opera is noted for its seamless flow and the use of leitmotifs, showcasing Verdi's late style characterized by continuous music rather than traditional arias and recitatives.
Ruggero Raimondi's Portrayal: Raimondi is celebrated for his deep understanding of the character, bringing depth and nuance to Falstaff's larger-than-life persona.
Stefano Poda's Vision: As the director and designer, Poda's holistic approach creates a unique and immersive theatrical experience, emphasizing the timeless themes of the opera.