Othello by Guiseppe Verdi, Placido Domingo.

Conducted by Riccardo Mutti.

TDK DV-OPOTEL DVD

THIS week we are encountering a whole new technology - the world of the DVD.

Not only do you experience a state-of-the-art recording, but also an excellently directed performance of the opera, with lighting, staging, costume and drama unfolding before you.

This is definitely stimulating stuff. Now that DVD players are becoming affordable it is worth a thought. You can also play your CDs on a DVD player. On with the show...

This recording was made in 2001, the last production before the opera house, La Scala in Milan, began a three-year renovation programme, and stars Placido Domingo as the Moor of Venice and Barbara Frittoli as Desdemona.

Guiseppe Verdi had become tired of the theatre, and, after the premiere of Aida he took himself off to his farm and his cows. However, knowing his love of Shakespeare his publisher Giuli Ricordi persuaded him to consider Otello as a project. In 1887, the finished opera was premiered at La Scala. So, this is an apt recording.

Domingo sings and acts his role giving a thrilling performance; the style and emotion are vigorous and disturbing. The depths of despair and rage against Desdemona are chillingly portrayed.

Frittoli, a new name for me, is a charming and yet sensuous Desdemona, who sings with verve and clarity.

The main joy of this recording is seeing in all its glory, one of the most famous operas, being performed in one of the most famous opera houses in the world.

For many, myself included, a live performance of opera is a dream, and this comes very close to achieving that dream at a reasonable price.