Description

Jules Massenet: Thaïs (DVD)

UPC: 807280138597

Product Features

Format: DVD, Dual Layer
Performance: Thaïs, live from the Teatro Regio Torino, 2008
Composer: Jules Massenet
Libretto: Louis Gallet, based on the novel Thaïs by Anatole France
Orchestra and Chorus: Teatro Regio Torino
Conductor: Gianandrea Noseda
Stage Director, Choreographer, Set, Costume, and Light Designer: Stefano Poda
Chorus Master: Roberto Gabbiani
Principal Cast:Sound Formats: PCM Stereo, Dolby Digital 5.1, DTS 5.1
- Thaïs: Barbara Frittoli
- Athanaël: Lado Ataneli
- Nicias: Alessandro Liberatore
- Palémon: Maurizio Lo Piccolo
- Albine: Nadežda Serdyuk
- Crobyle: Eleonora Bianchi
- Myrtale: Valentina Farcas
- La Charmeuse: Daniela Schillaci
- Un serviteur: Diego Matamoros
Subtitle Languages: French (Original Language), English, German, Italian, Spanish
Menu Language: English
Picture Format: 16:9
Region Code: 0 (Region Free)
Running Time: 139 minutes
Production: Rai Trade in association with Metis Film, 2009

Overview

This DVD presents a visually stunning and musically compelling performance of Jules Massenet’s Thaïs, recorded live at the Teatro Regio Torino in 2008. Under the baton of conductor Gianandrea Noseda, the Orchestra and Chorus of the Teatro Regio Torino deliver a captivating rendition of Massenet's comédie lyrique, which is set in three acts and seven scenes.

The production is directed and designed by Stefano Poda, who is responsible for the stage direction, choreography, set, costume, and lighting design, creating a unified and immersive aesthetic experience. Soprano Barbara Frittoli shines in the title role, with baritone Lado Ataneli delivering a powerful performance as Athanaël, the monk torn between spiritual and earthly desires.

Interesting Facts

Unique Direction: Stefano Poda’s approach to Thaïs integrates all elements of the production—direction, design, and choreography—resulting in a cohesive and visually striking presentation.
Massenet’s Masterpiece: Thaïs is one of Massenet's most performed operas, known for its beautiful music and the famous "Méditation," an orchestral interlude that is frequently performed in concert settings.
Literary Origins: The opera is based on Anatole France’s novel of the same name, exploring themes of redemption, beauty, and spiritual conflict.