Manon Lescaut (1983 TV Movie) User Reviews

Domingo, TeKanawa, Puccini- a perfect musical match

[TheLittleSongbird · 10/10 · 3 June 2011]

I saw this Covent Garden production of Manon Lescaut for four primary reasons. One is my love of opera. Secondly, Placido Domingo is one of my all-time favourite singers. Thirdly, I love Puccini and his operas and the duet and intermezzo are two of his best and most beautiful pieces of music in my opinion. And finally, I am very fond of Kiri TeKanawa.

I am also receptive to the Met production with Renata Scotto in the title role. Comparing the two Manons, if I must, I think Scotto has the stronger acting ability, don't get me wrong TeKanawa's acting is very impressive but Scotto's acting is so good she becomes the character she plays, however TeKanawa's singing which is often very musical, intelligent and angelic appeals to me just a tad more. Speaking of TeKanawa, she is wonderful in this production and her acting in the final act brings tears to my eyes.

She has the perfect match with Placido Domingo, who himself is an outstanding singing actor and here is no exception. He is more dashing and perhaps more youthful in the Met production, but when he is this good in his acting and presence it doesn't matter.

The conducting and orchestra are spot on, and the costumes, photography and sets are absolutely beautiful. All in all, a perfect musical match. 10/10 Bethany Cox

Another superlative version

[careercharisma · 10/10 · 5 May 2012]

I'm probably more partial to the Met version from 1980 because 1) I was actually there, in the first row center, during the performance that was being taped for posterity, and was able to watch it up close, and listen to those glorious voices live, and 2) I believe, as does the earlier reviewer, that Renata Scotto's acting made Manon come alive...and met Domingo's Des Grieux heartache for heartache, which is no mean feat.

But in the vocal department, as good as Scotto was -- and she was VERY good -- Te Kanewa was absolutely glorious. Her voice was one of the most beautiful ever to grace the opera stage -- supremely sweet, strong and supple, with floated high notes that must be heard to be believed.

So it's a toss-up, really. The anchor for both versions, of course, is Domingo. There has never been -- and there never will be again -- a tenor who had a voice of such stunning beauty and dark strength, incredible acting ability, and amazing good looks. He had it all, and in both this version, made when he was 42 years old, and in the earlier Renata Scotto version of "Manon Lescaut", when he was 39, he was in his absolute prime.

Interested opera fans should view both versions...decide for yourself which you prefer. You certainly can't go wrong with either one.