Description

Richard Strauss: Capriccio (2 DVDs)

UPC: 807280732795

Product Features

Conductor: Ulf Schirmer
Stage Director: Robert Carsen
Opera: Capriccio by Richard Strauss
Cast: Renée Fleming (Die Gräfin), Dietrich Henschel (Der Graf), Rainer Trost (Flamand), Gerald Finley (Olivier), Franz Hawlata (La Roche), Anne Sofie von Otter (Clairon), Robert Tear (Monsieur Taupe), Annamaria Dell'Oste (Eine italienische Sängerin), Barry Banks (Ein italienischer Tenor), Petri Lindroos (Der Haushofmeister)
Orchestra: Orchestre de l'Opéra national de Paris
Subtitles: English, German, French, Spanish, Italian
Picture Format: 16:9
Sound Formats: PCM Stereo, Dolby Digital 5.0, DTS 5.0
Region Code: 0 (Region-free)
Running Time: 148 minutes
DVD Format: DVD-9 & DVD-5 NTSC (2 DVDs)
Country of Origin: Germany
Release Year: 2011

Overview

This 2-DVD set captures a stunning performance of Richard Strauss's final opera Capriccio, recorded live in 2004 at the Opéra national de Paris, Palais Garnier. Under the baton of Ulf Schirmer and directed by Robert Carsen, this production features the acclaimed soprano Renée Fleming as the Countess, in a role that has become one of her signature performances. The opera, a "conversation piece" in one act, explores the question of whether words or music are more important in opera, set against the backdrop of 18th-century aristocratic life. The production is visually rich, with set designs by Michael Levine and costumes by Anthony Powell, creating a perfect blend of drama, wit, and aesthetic beauty.

Interesting Facts

Renée Fleming: Renowned for her luxurious voice and commanding stage presence, Fleming's portrayal of the Countess in Capriccio is widely regarded as one of the finest interpretations of the role.
Robert Carsen's Direction: Carsen's production is noted for its elegant simplicity, allowing the music and libretto to take center stage, while the subtle yet effective staging enhances the opera's intellectual and emotional depth.
Opera's Theme: Capriccio is unique in its meta-theatrical exploration of the art of opera itself, delving into the debate between the primacy of words and music—a fitting subject for Strauss’s final operatic work.
Historic Venue: The performance was recorded at the historic Palais Garnier, one of the most prestigious opera houses in the world, known for its opulent architecture and rich cultural history.

Publishers

Arthaus Musik GmbH: A leading publisher of classical music and opera recordings, Arthaus Musik is dedicated to delivering high-quality performances from world-renowned venues, allowing audiences to experience the finest in operatic and classical music.