Video artist Franc Aleu, who belongs to the artists’ group La Fura dels Baus, sets the exciting Puccini opera Turandot into the future. With projection mapping and 3D technology in the Gran Teatre del Liceu, the play about the cruel princess is shown in a spectacular, visually striking new way. The great vocal cast including Irene Theorin, “a powerful-voiced Turandot, Jorge de Leon, a sovereign Calaf and Soprano Ermonela Jaho, who sings a touching Liu“ (Das Opernmagazin) is leaded by conductor Josep Pons “in great form“ (forumopera.com).
Luisa Miller – Dynamic
Recording of a live performance at Teatro La Fenice, Venice. Darina Takova brings a warm rounded tone to Luisa, and negotiates both the character’s tenderness and passion with dramatic conviction and persuasive musicality. Giuseppe Sabbatini’s Rodolfo makes a strong match for Takova, with a secure, colorful tenor and a dramatically compelling presence. As Walter and Wurm, baritone Alexander Vinogradov and bass Artjun Kotchinian create thrillingly villainous characters with their dark, powerful voices. Mezzo Ursula Ferri sings with richness and depth as Federica. The orchestra and chorus, led by Maurizio Benini, perform with real urgency, and Benini’s flexible tempos drive the tragedy inexorably toward its devastating climax.