Rent Saint-Saens: Samson Et Dalila: San Francisco Opera (Julius Rudel) Online DVD & Blu-ray Rental

Saint-Saens: Samson Et Dalila: San Francisco Opera (Julius Rudel) (1981)

Name: Saint-Saens: Samson Et Dalila: San Francisco Opera (Julius Rudel)
Rating: 3.4

3.4 of 5 from 45 ratings

2h 1min

Unavailable

General info
Available formats

Synopsis:: Show moreShow less
Saint-Saens' 'Samson et Dalila' is here realised in a lavish 1981 San Francisco Opera production with Placido Domingo in his prime. Significantly expanded from the famous Bible story of the Jews under the Philistine yoke, and recast in late-19th century romantic terms, the opera was close to the composer's heart: Saint-Saens began work in 1859 but did not complete his score until 17 years later. While elements of the originally planned more formal oratorio remain, Samson et Dalila nevertheless develops considerable dramatic and orchestral power, with Domingo giving a performance worthy of a great tragic hero.
Likewise, mezzo-soprano Shirley Verrett brings complex characterisation to the temptress Dalila, offering a performance of such seductive intelligence that her scenes with Domingo spark with electrifying force. Equally fine support comes from Wolfgang Brendel as Samson's nemesis, the High Priest of the pagan god Dagon. Director Nicolas Joel knows when to emphasise the spectacle of the stage production or focus on more intimate personal drama, though it is the latter which is best served in a small screen version somewhat diminished by early 1980's TV technical standards. That aside, this is music drama with the grip of a psychological thriller and is unlikely to disappoint those looking for a feast of fine singing.
Actors:: Plácido Domingo, Shirley Verrett, Wolfgang Brendel, Kevin Langan, Arnold Voketaitis, Julius Rudel, Chorus of The San Francisco Opera
Directors:: Kirk Browning
Studio:: Arthaus Musik
Genres:: Drama, Music & Musicals, Performing Arts, Special Interest