Title: Musically fine, but disappointing visually
Product review: Allegedly directed for television, this production is disappointing because of its terrible lighting and production values. To make it interesting and appealing to watch would require more than the pale blue lighting that pervades throughout. Even if there were some colour in the costumes, sets or faces, it wouldn't show up because of the poor lighting. The staging is overly stylized as well, setting a new low standard. The same forces issued a production of Alceste which was somewhat better.Musically and aurally the performance is very good indeed. The cast is great. But I wanted something that was also satisfying to watch. I already have a terrific CD of this opera.It might have looked fine on stage, but as a DVD on my widescreen HD set it is a big mistake. I will not purchase another opera on DVD from these producers unless they pay more attention to the visual qualities.
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