The Consul by Gian-Carlo Menotti - Patricia Neway in VAI Production DVD 

UPC: 089948426691

Product Features

• Composer and Librettist: Gian-Carlo Menotti
• Main Cast:
  • John Sorel: Chester Ludgin
  • Magda Sorel: Patricia Neway
  • The Mother: Evelyn Sachs
  • The Police Agent: Leon Lishner
  • The Secretary: Regina Sarfaty
• Supporting Cast:Director: Jean Dalrymple
  • Mr. Kofner: Arnold Voketaitis
  • The Foreign Woman: Maria Marlo
  • The Magician: Norman Kelley
  • Assan: Dan Merriman
  • Anna Gomez: Maria DiGerlando
  • Vera Boronel: Ruth Kobart
• Musical Direction: Werner Torkanowsky
• Format: DVD, Black & White, 4:3 aspect ratio
• Region Code: Open (all regions)
• Subtitles: English, Français, Deutsch, Italiano
• Audio: Mono
• Running Time: 120 minutes

Overview

Gian-Carlo Menotti's The Consul, a profound musical drama, is brought to life in this compelling production from 1960, starring celebrated opera singer Patricia Neway as Magda Sorel. Menotti’s work examines themes of political oppression and personal sacrifice through the tragic story of a family seeking refuge from tyranny. This VAI (Video Artists International) DVD, made available from archival material at the Library of Congress, captures the gripping tension and emotional depth of the original stage performance.

With Jean Dalrymple as producer and Werner Torkanowsky leading the musical direction, this performance explores Menotti's powerful narrative on the human struggle for dignity and freedom. Patricia Neway’s portrayal of Magda Sorel is both haunting and deeply empathetic, making this DVD an essential for opera enthusiasts and those intrigued by 20th-century political dramas.

Interesting Facts

• Pulitzer Prize: The Consul received the Pulitzer Prize for Music in 1950, reflecting Menotti’s ability to engage audiences with social and political themes.
• Patricia Neway’s Role: Neway’s portrayal of Magda Sorel won her critical acclaim, including a Tony Award for her later role in The Sound of Music. Her performance in The Consul remains one of her most celebrated.
• Historical Context: Produced during the Cold War, The Consul resonates with themes of bureaucracy, fear, and the universal plight of refugees. Its relevance continues today.
• Archival Quality: This VAI release features rare archival footage from the Library of Congress, providing a valuable historical record of a landmark American opera.

Track Listing

• Total Running Time: 120 minutes

Publisher

Video Artists International (VAI)
Website: www.vaimusic.com
109 Wheeler Avenue, Pleasantville, NY 10570
Phone: (800) 477-7146
Fax: (914) 769-5407

Hashtags

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