Zach Top Rigoletto: Opera Australia (Reggioli) [Blu-ray] [Region Free] [2012]

One of Opera Australia's best-loved productions, Elijah Moshinsky's retelling of Rigoletto draws Verdi's dark melodrama into a modern day mafioso underworld, inspired by Federico Fellini's all-time classic La Dolce Vita. Heading a glittering international cast is baritone Alan Opie in a commanding performance as the tortured jester, with Emma Matthews taking on the role of Gilda and Paul O'Neil as the lustful Duke. Conductor Giovanni Reggioli masterfully captures the luscious yet fragile tones of Verdi's much-loved score, with its feast of sublime singing. A classic opera for purists and first-timers alike. Review 'Emma Matthews could inspire the dead, turning in one of the finest readings of this role I've ever heard...She easily could just warble and make you perfectly happy but she acts and characterizes. Her 'Caro nome' is touching as well as dazzling in its virtuosity, and her rich mid-voice allows for some truly dramatic singing later on.' --International Record Review, Robert Levine, April 2012 'Updated to the time of Fellini's La Dolce Vita, it utilises every inch of the stage. Giving a performance to match this setting is Alan Opie as Rigoletto...he still dominates his scenes by virtue of his stage presence and his vocal prowess. As Gilda, Emma Matthews is outstanding...In the Pit, conductor Giovanni Reggioli gives a heart-felt account of the score.' --Opera Now, May 2012 'A success... Emma Matthews is a significant triumph, while Giovanni Reggioli's sensitive conducting draws elegant and evocative playing from the Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra.' --The Opera Critic