Description
Orphée aux Enfers: A Spirited Production from La Monnaie
UPC 807280040395
Product Features
- Format: DVD9 NTSC, Dual Layer
- Sound Format: PCM Stereo
- Picture Format: 16:9
- Subtitle Languages: French (Original Language), English (GB), German (DE), Spanish (ES)
- Region Code: 0 (Region-Free)
- Running Time: 120 Minutes
- Rating: FSK 0, suitable for all ages
Overview
Jacques Offenbach's Orphée aux Enfers (Orpheus in the Underworld), performed in 1997 at La Monnaie / De Munt in Brussels, is an opera buffa in two acts that turns the tragic Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice into a satirical extravaganza. This production, under the baton of Patrick Davin and the visionary direction of Herbert Wernicke, who also designed the sets, costumes, and lighting, offers a modern interpretation filled with humor, wit, and vibrant energy.
Stellar Cast
- Orpheus: Alexandru Badea
- Eurydice: Elizabeth Vidal
- Jupiter: Dale Duesing
- Pluto/Aristeus: Reinaldo Macias
- Public Opinion: Désirée Meiser
- Additional roles include Jacqueline van Quaille as Juno, Michele Patzakis as Venus, and Marie-Noëlle de Callatay as Cupid, among others.
The Symphony Orchestra and Chorus of La Monnaie / De Munt breathe life into Offenbach's exhilarating score, from the infernal gallop of the "Can-Can" to the lyrical beauty of Orpheus and Eurydice's arias. Choreography by Andrew George and Sylvia Printemps adds a dynamic visual element, enhancing the comedic and fantastical elements of the opera.
Interesting Facts
- Orphée aux Enfers is often hailed as the first full-length operetta, a genre that Offenbach popularized during the 19th century.
- Herbert Wernicke's multifaceted role as stage director, set, costume, and lighting designer creates a unified and imaginative aesthetic that is both contemporary and reflective of the opera's thematic richness.
- This production was directed for video by Dirk Gryspeirt, ensuring that the theatrical experience translates effectively to the screen.
Key Credits
- Conductor: Patrick Davin
- Stage Director, Set, Costume & Lighting Designer: Herbert Wernicke
- Choreography: Andrew George, Sylvia Printemps
- Directed for Video by: Dirk Gryspeirt
Hashtags
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