Description
Richard Strauss: Salome - The Royal Opera House Production (DVD)
UPC 809478031086
Product Features
- Composer: Richard Strauss (1864–1949)
- Title: Salome
- Performers: Maria Ewing (Salome), Michael Devlin (Jokanaan), Kenneth Riegel (Herod), Gillian Knight (Herodias), Robin Leggate (Narraboth)
- Conductor: Edward Downes
- Director: Peter Hall
- Orchestra: The Orchestra of the Royal Opera House
- Language: German (with English subtitles)
- Subtitles: English
- Audio Format: Stereo
- Aspect Ratio: 4:3 Standard Definition
- Running Time: Approximately 104 minutes
- Region: All regions (NTSC format)
- Extra Features: None specified
- Release Date: 2009 (original production in 1992)
Overview
Richard Strauss’s Salome is a gripping one-act opera that explores themes of lust, power, and tragedy. In Peter Hall’s 1992 production at the Royal Opera House, Maria Ewing delivers an unforgettable portrayal of the title role, embodying the character’s mix of childish innocence and ruthless ambition. The star-studded cast also includes Michael Devlin as Jokanaan (John the Baptist), Kenneth Riegel as Herod, and Gillian Knight as the manipulative Herodias.
Set to one of Strauss’s most intense and provocative scores, this opera famously includes the “Dance of the Seven Veils” and ends in shocking violence. The Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, conducted by the distinguished Edward Downes, provides a rich and dynamic interpretation of Strauss's powerful music. This 2009 DVD release preserves the magic of this classic performance, which was originally recorded for television.
Interesting Facts
- Maria Ewing: Ewing’s performance as Salome is legendary for its intensity and vulnerability, particularly in the opera’s climactic final scene. Her "Dance of the Seven Veils" was also noted for its provocative nature.
- Peter Hall: A renowned stage director, Hall brought psychological depth to this production, emphasizing the complex relationships between the characters.
- Jokanaan’s Role: Michael Devlin’s portrayal of the imprisoned prophet John the Baptist (Jokanaan) stands in stark contrast to the decadent court of Herod, highlighting the tension between moral purity and corruption.
- Historical Significance: Salome was one of the most controversial operas of its time, and this production, with its themes of violence and eroticism, remains true to Strauss’s daring vision.
Track Listing
- Salome’s Obsession - Act I
- The Dance of the Seven Veils - Act II
- Final Confrontation and Tragedy - Act III
Publishers
- Opus Arte: A leading producer of opera and classical music DVDs, Opus Arte brings this powerful 1992 production to home audiences with high-quality sound and video.
Hashtags
#Salome #RichardStrauss #OperaDVD #MariaEwing #PeterHall #RoyalOperaHouse #ClassicOpera #OpusArte #SalomeDVD #RoyalOperaProduction
