This is a collection of ballet music and arias from several Handel operas loosely hung around the plot of Handel's Alcina. The ballet music is largely uninspiring. I am an admirer of Kiri Te Kanawa's singing and acting ability but I think she better served by Verdi and Puccini. She looks resplendent and performs the showcase arias competently but appears to be embarrassed to be involved in such a tasteless enterprise. Surprisingly, she seems to be singing rather than miming. Christopher Hogwood conducts an orchestra in the cellar which, perhaps, explains the harsh sound quality.
3 Reviews
Unusual but I for one found it beautifully done
TheLittleSongbird1 March 2012
I also respectfully disagree with Gyran, but I do understand why this Sorceress mayn't be for all tastes. It is an unusual structure, like has been said already it is part opera, part ballet and part music video, and it is essentially ballet music and Handel arias very loosely around Alcina's story. However, it is so lush in the visuals, with sumptuous costuming and settings and a compelling fairy-tale atmosphere. TeKanawa as always looks radiant. The picture quality and camera work are very good.
My only real criticism really is the sound quality, it is a little on the harsh side and could've been a little more balanced with the orchestra. Handel's music, rousing and emotional at every turn, more than makes up for it though, as do the stylish orchestra playing and Christopher Hogwood's sprightly conducting. The singing is exceptional, with the main draw being Kiri TeKanawa as a gentler but still commanding Alcina. I have always liked her, and she is vocally resplendent, with secure technique, a clear bell-like voice with no signs of strain and an alluring presence.
Of the renditions of this Sorceress performance, my favourite was Ah! Reggiero Crudel- Ombra Pallide(Alcina, the aria and performance was beautiful and intense. Piangero La Mia Sorte(Guilio Caesare) is a close second, showing the ethereal quality of TeKanawa's voice. In conclusion, a great performance that TeKanawa fans will love and appreciate but not for everybody perhaps. 9/10 Bethany Cox
My only real criticism really is the sound quality, it is a little on the harsh side and could've been a little more balanced with the orchestra. Handel's music, rousing and emotional at every turn, more than makes up for it though, as do the stylish orchestra playing and Christopher Hogwood's sprightly conducting. The singing is exceptional, with the main draw being Kiri TeKanawa as a gentler but still commanding Alcina. I have always liked her, and she is vocally resplendent, with secure technique, a clear bell-like voice with no signs of strain and an alluring presence.
Of the renditions of this Sorceress performance, my favourite was Ah! Reggiero Crudel- Ombra Pallide(Alcina, the aria and performance was beautiful and intense. Piangero La Mia Sorte(Guilio Caesare) is a close second, showing the ethereal quality of TeKanawa's voice. In conclusion, a great performance that TeKanawa fans will love and appreciate but not for everybody perhaps. 9/10 Bethany Cox
A gorgeous baroque fantasy
sarah-blake-585-11218718 November 2009
I couldn't disagree more with the original comment left about this film. If you are a fan of baroque or rococo decorative style or theatrical traditions - or if one of your favourite art books happens to be 'Baroque Baroque' by Stephen Calloway - then you will love this. It's an unusual film - part opera, part ballet, part music video - which is why, presumably, sniffy critics disapprove. However those with a creative eye for art, design and theatre will lap up the lush visuals and fairy-tale atmosphere, while the music is sublime and Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, majestic in all her witchy glory. I only wish the production was on DVD, as I would love to own a copy.
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