Description

Richard Strauss - Elektra | Opernhaus Zürich DVD

UPC: 824121002022

Product Features

Composer: Richard Strauss
Conductor: Christoph von Dohnányi
Orchestra: Orchester der Oper Zürich
Chorus: Chor des Opernhauses Zürich
Chorus Master: Ernst Raffelsberger
Starring:Running Time: Approx. 102 minutes
- Eva Johansson as Elektra
- Marjana Lipovšek as Klytämnestra
- Melanie Diener as Chrysothemis
- Rudolf Schasching as Aegisth
- Alfred Muff as Orest
Audio Format: Dolby Digital 5.1, DTS 5.1, LPCM Stereo
Subtitles: English, German, French, Italian, Spanish
Picture Format: 16:9 Anamorphic, NTSC
Region Code: 0 (All Regions)
Label: TDK

Overview

Richard Strauss’ Elektra* is a visceral, powerful opera that explores themes of vengeance, family, and psychological torment. This acclaimed production from Opernhaus Zürich, directed by Martin Kušej, brings the intense drama of Strauss’ masterpiece to life with a stark, modern set design by Rolf Glittenberg. With Christoph von Dohnányi at the helm, leading the Orchester der Oper Zürich**, the music is as relentless as the story itself, driving forward with unrelenting energy and emotional intensity.

The cast is led by Eva Johansson, whose portrayal of Elektra is both powerful and tragic. Marjana Lipovšek delivers a chilling performance as Klytämnestra, while Melanie Diener shines as the conflicted Chrysothemis. This performance, recorded live at the Opernhaus Zürich in 2005, captures the raw emotions and dramatic power of this iconic opera.

Interesting Facts

Elektra is one of Richard Strauss’ most intense and psychologically complex operas, known for its demanding vocal parts and dissonant, modernist score.
The role of Elektra is one of the most challenging soprano roles in the operatic repertoire, both vocally and emotionally, and Eva Johansson’s portrayal has been widely praised for its intensity.
Marjana Lipovšek, as Klytämnestra, brings depth to the character’s guilt-ridden psyche, while Melanie Diener’s Chrysothemis adds a layer of vulnerability to the dynamic between the sisters.
Martin Kušej’s staging is known for its stark, minimalist approach, emphasizing the psychological drama and inner turmoil of the characters.
The Orchester der Oper Zürich, under Christoph von Dohnányi, provides a powerful and nuanced interpretation of Strauss’ score, which is considered one of the most difficult in the operatic canon.