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Strauss: Arabella

starring: Renee Fleming, Morten Frank Larsen, Julia Kleiter, Johan Weigel, Zurich Opera House Chorus & Orchestra
directed by: Gotz Friedrich

Release Date July 08, 2008
I dithered about acquiring this new DVD of Arabella; afterall I had KIri and Gundula, but most of the Zurich productions I have are very good and even though Renee (and Muff and Kallisch)was the only artist whose work I knew I thought it was worth the plunge. And as far as Fleming, I am glad I did. As an actor she has improved immensely since the taping of the Capriccio--a self-absorbed interpretation created to draw attention to herself at the expense of others. This is not the case with her Arabella, but what a pity that Morton Frank Larsen (a substitute for Thomas Hampson) was the only other Mandryka available. Here is a lyric baritone, seemingly young (and very good looking) who has no business singing this role. Yes, I know Hampson is a ... Read More: