Description

Janáček: Jenůfa - The Royal Opera House Production (DVD)

UPC: 0809478013518

Product Features

Composer: Leoš Janáček
Title: Jenůfa
Performers: Asmik Grigorian (Jenůfa), Karita Mattila (Kostelnička), Nicky Spence (Laca Klemeň), Saimir Pirgu (Števa Buryja), Elena Zilio (Grandmother Buryjovka)
Conductor: Henrik Nánási
Director: Claus Guth
Orchestra: Royal Opera House Orchestra
Chorus: Royal Opera Chorus
Language: Czech (Original)
Subtitles: English, French, German, Japanese, Korean
Audio Format: LPCM 2.0, DTS
Aspect Ratio: 16:9 Anamorphic
Running Time: 136 minutes (opera), 2 minutes (extras)
Region: All regions (NTSC format)
Extra Features: Interviews with Claus Guth, Elle Oil-Wood, and Cast Gallery
Release Date: 2022

Overview

Janáček’s Jenůfa is a masterpiece of 20th-century opera, vividly brought to life in this powerful production by the Royal Opera House. Directed by Claus Guth, this 2021 recording presents the dramatic tale of two women, Jenůfa and her stepmother Kostelnička, caught in a rural community’s harsh social confines. The music, conducted by Henrik Nánási, is filled with the folk-inspired melodies of Janáček’s native Moravia, weaving a rich emotional tapestry from tragedy to hope.

Asmik Grigorian shines in her Royal Opera House debut as Jenůfa, opposite Karita Mattila as the tormented Kostelnička. Nicky Spence and Saimir Pirgu round out a stellar cast, bringing this emotionally intense opera to a poignant conclusion. Filmed for DVD with stunning visuals and immersive sound, this production is a must-have for opera enthusiasts and collectors of Janáček’s works.

Interesting Facts

Asmik Grigorian’s Debut: This production marks Grigorian’s first appearance at the Royal Opera House, adding another milestone to her rising international career.
Kostelnička’s Role: The character of Kostelnička is one of opera’s most complex maternal figures, combining moral rigidity and deep compassion, a challenge embraced by Karita Mattila.
Director Claus Guth: Known for his psychological interpretations of opera, Guth creates a claustrophobic atmosphere that underscores the characters’ emotional struggles.
Cultural Significance: Janáček drew from the folk traditions of his homeland, infusing Jenůfa with authentic Moravian melodies and rhythms, which contribute to its raw emotional power.

Track Listing

Act 1 - Introduction, Jenůfa’s Hope
Act 2 - Kostelnička’s Despair
Act 3 - The Community’s Judgment and Final Redemption

Publishers

Opus Arte: Known for producing high-quality opera and ballet recordings, Opus Arte delivers this DVD as part of its extensive collection of Royal Opera House performances.