If you are expecting to see the story of Samson et Dalila set in Biblical times then beware! This is 'producers' opera I'm afraid. Obviously having no idea of how to set the story, they choose to remove it completely from its Biblical context and set in in some indefinable, futuristic setting, complete with chorus carrying around various bits of metal and car doors for no apparent reason.
I could go on and on about the irrelevance of the sets and costumes - but I won't. I need only say that at the climax of the opera, Samson does not bring down the temple - there is no temple. Enough said I think.
Luckily the singers are first class. Even at this stage in his career, Placido Domingo producers ringing tone and committed acting, though he must have wondered what world he had wandered into. He is well matched by Olga Borodina, with sumptuous, sexy tone and plenty of disdain, as the sexy Dalila.
My advice - ignore the sets and just listen to the glorious music.
9 out of 10 for singing/music and 1 out of 10 for production.
I could go on and on about the irrelevance of the sets and costumes - but I won't. I need only say that at the climax of the opera, Samson does not bring down the temple - there is no temple. Enough said I think.
Luckily the singers are first class. Even at this stage in his career, Placido Domingo producers ringing tone and committed acting, though he must have wondered what world he had wandered into. He is well matched by Olga Borodina, with sumptuous, sexy tone and plenty of disdain, as the sexy Dalila.
My advice - ignore the sets and just listen to the glorious music.
9 out of 10 for singing/music and 1 out of 10 for production.