Rimsky-Korsakov: Le Coq d Or

Nagano, Kent, Orchestre de Paris

DVD 108053

Rimsky-Korsakov epitomises the fantastic side of the Russian soul. Regarding opera as essentially the most enchanting and intoxicating of lies, he drew on his countrys rich folk heritage to create a fairy-tale world in which the fanciful and commonplace were fused through extravagant orchestral virtuosity and fervently Romantic vocal writing. This Châtelet revival of Le Coq dOr brings to the stage once again the great Kabuki actor Ennosuke IIIs striking staging of Rimsky-Korsakovs opera first mounted in co-production with the San Francisco Opera in 1984. Born into one of Japans most important Kabuki families in 1939, Ennosuke III is a master of his art, who has worked to give this traditional theatre form appeal for modern audiences. As an actor, director and producer his aim has been to bring back the energy and excitement of Edo-period Kabuki. High-tech special effects, dynamic lighting, stunning costumes and minimalist sets have drawn new fans to his Super Kabuki shows. He worked on this sumptuous production of Le Coq dOr with an all-Japanese creative team and the result had an Oriental beauty and fascination entirely appropriate to this satirical fantasy opera. Completed in 1907, Le Coq dOr, based on Pushkins 1834 poem, was Rimsky-Korsakovs last opera. It was also his most provocative. When he completed the score, he was forced to submit it to the censor with the result that it was barred from production. Rimsky-Korsakov died in 1908 without ever having heard the opera performed.

Blu-ray x 1

Arthaus

2012-04-27

807280805390