MARBECKS COLLECTABLE: Mozart: Le Nozze di Figaro [The Marriage of Figaro] (complete opera directed by Jean-Pierre Ponnelle. Recorded in 1976)

Mozart's charming opera buffa about love, intrigue and the class struggle definitely ranges among the most beloved operas of all

This exceptional production features an all-star cast with the likes of Hermann Prey, Mirella Freni, Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau and Kiri Te Kanawa

Ponnelle's production with its imaginative camerawork brings out both the witty and the serious sides of this opera masterpiece

"Everything about this production proclaims quality. The cast, orchestra and conductor are all beyond reproach. Collectively they bring a wealth of experience and affection to Mozart's eternal masterpiece. . . Fischer-Dieskau's Count plays all with an observant eye, truly master of his household in more ways than one. He steers that fine line between aristocrat and philanderer, superbly acted, with words telling as only they can from the lieder singer sans pareil. As his wife, Kiri Te Kanawa gives one of her most touching portrayals, luxuriantly voiced and absolutely believable. Likewise the pairing of Hermann Prey and Mirella Freni as Figaro and Susanna provides a wonderful reminder of two treasured artists captured in their prime. Watching them, I could think of no other assumption of these roles, vocally or in terms of acted performance. Pure delight! And what a masterclass of interaction: more outward maybe than Fischer-Dieskau and Te Kanawa - but a perfect foil, illustrating contrasting circles of society. Cherubino in the hands of a young Maria Ewing is fully hot-headed and emotional. Under Böhm the Vienna Philharmonic play like angels; affection and vitality in every bar."
Musicweb June 2005

Regular 4:3
181 minutes