This version of Parsifal remains true to Wagner's staging. Wagner combines several different characters from the Wolfram von Eschenbach epic into the Kundry and Gurnemanz roles, thereby simplifying the production while complexifying the chararacterizations. He masterfully integrates philosophical elements from Schopenhauer, Buddhism, and esoteric Christianity into this, his parable of initiation, illumination, and redemption.
The technical aspects of the recording lack in some areas, such as errors in translation from the German in the English subtitles, and poor audio during hymns sung by the Grail Knights.
Waltraud Meier brings such emotion and beauty to the production that seeing her performance alone would make viewing this worthwhile. Recommended for anyone with an interest in the Grail.
