Description
Verdi: Macbeth - Gran Teatre del Liceu (2 DVD Set)
UPC: 809478009221
Product Features
- Opera Title: Macbeth
- Composer: Giuseppe Verdi (1813–1901)
- Lead Cast:Orchestra & Chorus: Symphony Orchestra and Chorus of the Gran Teatre del Liceu
- Carlos Álvarez as Macbeth
- Maria Guleghina as Lady Macbeth
- Roberto Scandiuzzi as Banquo
- Marco Berti as Macduff
- Musical Director: Bruno Campanella
- Stage Director: Phyllida Lloyd
- Set & Costume Design: Anthony Ward
- Lighting Design: Paule Constable
- Subtitle Languages: English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Catalan
- Audio Formats: LPCM Stereo
- Region: All Regions
- Format: NTSC
- Aspect Ratio: 16:9 Anamorphic
- Running Time: Approx. 240 minutes
- Release Year: 2005
- Extra Features: Illustrated synopsis, cast gallery
Overview
Giuseppe Verdi’s Macbeth, based on William Shakespeare’s dark and brooding tragedy, stands as the first of Verdi’s Shakespearean operas. The tale follows Macbeth, a once noble Scottish general, whose ambition, spurred on by the manipulations of his wife, leads him down a path of murder and betrayal in his bid to seize the throne. This operatic adaptation highlights the psychological depth and the chilling consequences of unchecked ambition.
In this 2004 production at the Gran Teatre del Liceu in Barcelona, Carlos Álvarez masterfully portrays Macbeth, while Maria Guleghina shines as the ruthless Lady Macbeth, delivering powerhouse performances that bring Verdi’s intense score to life. Bruno Campanella conducts the Symphony Orchestra and Chorus of the Gran Teatre del Liceu, enhancing the emotional tension and dramatic highs of this production.
This version of Macbeth was first staged at London’s Royal Opera House under the direction of Phyllida Lloyd, who brings a fresh and vivid interpretation of Verdi’s masterpiece. The set and costume design by Anthony Ward and lighting by Paule Constable combine to create an atmosphere of gloom and foreboding, which perfectly matches the mood of Shakespeare’s original work.
Interesting Facts
- Macbeth was Verdi’s first opera based on a Shakespeare play, marking the beginning of his fascination with the works of the Bard, which would later include Otello and Falstaff.
- Carlos Álvarez, one of the most distinguished baritones of his generation, is particularly noted for his portrayal of Verdi's complex characters, and his performance in this production of Macbeth is regarded as one of his finest.
- Maria Guleghina has become synonymous with the role of Lady Macbeth, bringing fiery intensity to the role and showcasing her exceptional vocal power.
- The production's director, Phyllida Lloyd, is renowned for her work in both opera and theater, including her direction of the film Mamma Mia!.
- Gran Teatre del Liceu, one of Europe’s most prestigious opera houses, has been home to many historic productions, and this performance of Macbeth is a standout in their repertoire.
Track Listing (Acts)
- Act I: Macbeth's Encounter with the Witches and the Murder of King Duncan
- Act II: Macbeth’s Coronation and Banquo’s Murder
- Act III: The Banquet and Macbeth’s Downfall
- Act IV: Macduff’s Revenge and the Final Battle
Publishers
- Produced by: Opus Arte
- Co-production with: Fundació del Gran Teatre del Liceu
Hashtags
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