Description

Purcell: The Fairy Queen - Glyndebourne Production (2 DVD Set)

UPC: 809478010319

Product Features

Composer: Henry Purcell
Title: The Fairy Queen
Performers:Conductor: William Christie
- Lucy Crowe (Soprano)
- Carolyn Sampson (Soprano)
- Ed Lyon (Tenor)
- Andrew Foster-Williams (Bass-baritone)
- Sally Dexter (Actor)
- Joseph Millson (Actor)
- Desmond Barrit (Actor)
Director: Jonathan Kent
Orchestra: Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment
Chorus: The Glyndebourne Chorus
Subtitles: English, French, German, Spanish
Audio Format: DTS Surround Sound, Stereo
Aspect Ratio: NTSC format
Running Time: Approximately 230 minutes
Region Code: All regions (NTSC format)
Extra Features:Release Date: 2010
- Interviews with conductor William Christie and director Jonathan Kent
Design:
- Set and Costume Designer: Paul Brown
- Lighting Designer: Mark Henderson
- Choreographer: Kim Brandstrup

Overview

Henry Purcell's The Fairy Queen is an extraordinary semi-opera, blending spoken drama with musical interludes. Based on Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, this Glyndebourne production, directed by Jonathan Kent, is celebrated for its imaginative and joyful interpretation. With a perfect combination of music, dance, and visual spectacle, it brings out the playful and magical spirit of the original work.

The production features the outstanding Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, led by renowned conductor William Christie, along with a cast of talented singers and actors who bring both wit and beauty to the performance. With exquisite choreography by Kim Brandstrup and inventive designs by Paul Brown, the visual elements enhance the ethereal and enchanting atmosphere of the piece.

This 2-DVD set, filmed in High Definition and true surround sound, offers a stunning and immersive experience of Purcell’s The Fairy Queen, recorded live at Glyndebourne’s intimate theater.

Interesting Facts

Semi-Opera: The Fairy Queen is a “semi-opera,” where spoken dialogue is combined with musical and dance interludes. It was first performed in 1692 and is based on Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night's Dream.
Glyndebourne's Reputation: Glyndebourne is world-famous for its high-quality opera productions, and this Fairy Queen is no exception, praised for its inventive and vibrant staging.
William Christie: Christie is one of the most respected conductors of Baroque music, and his direction of the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment in this production brings out the nuance and energy of Purcell's score.

Track Listing

Act I - The Enchanted Forest and Oberon’s Revenge
Act II - The Love Potion and Chaos Ensues
Act III - Reconciliation and Celebration

Publishers

Opus Arte: Known for producing high-quality recordings of operas and classical music performances, Opus Arte delivers another stunning release with this Fairy Queen production.