Strauss: Der Rosenkavalier (Zurich, 2004)

Cast: Nina Stemme (Marschallin), Vesselina Kasarova (Octavian), Malin Hartelius (Sophie), Alfred Muff (Ochs), Rolf Haunstein (Faninal), Boiko Zvetanov (Italian Singer); Orchester der Oper Zürich, Franz Welser-Möst (conductor), Sven-Erich Bechtolf (director), Chloé Perlemuter (video director) Recorded at Opernhaus Zürich Issued on DVD by EMI Classics in 2004 [5 44258 9, NTSC/all regions, menus in English, subtitles in English, German, French, Italian, Spanish] Technical details Aspect ratio 16:9 Sound PCM Stereo, Dolby 5.1, DTS 5.1 Running Time 204 minutes Sung in German

Unfortunately, it is necessary to distinguish the production from the performance; the stage direction provides a complex of unresolvable issues surrounding what may be a 'concept' undefined by the score and indecipherable from the DVD. One instance may suffice: Act II is set in the kitchen of Faninal's estate, where Sophie assists the staff. Those intrigued by such inventions will welcome the staging; others are advised to ignore it as far as possible. I must acknowledge that one traditional problem with the opera - explaining Marie Therese's willingness to appear at the inn - is solved here: the inn is a tent in her boudoir.

Welser-Möst offers a thorough if uninspired reading. There are moments when orchestral voices seem to want to express the score's personality, but they are quickly squelched. With excellent sound and picture, such details are perceived easily. Video direction is sufficient to convey the images of the production but does not clarify it.

Stemme and Hartelius are admirable in voice, appearance and movement; Kasarova is technically fine, but not credible either physically or vocally. Muff's style is extremely attractive but he lacks weight of tone, particularly in the lower register. The other solo and ensemble contributors are commendable; properly, none stands out.

In sum, the DVD is recommended to those resolved to solve the production puzzle and to fans of the soprano voice who will surely appreciate the accomplishments of both Stemme and Hartelius.

 

Related website:

EMI Classics www.emiclassics.com

Michael Richter, 9 July 2005

mrichter@cpl.net

 

See also Michael Richter's Introduction to the DVD, for a list of other reviews see the DVD Project page.