Tosca
New National Theater - now known as Opera PalaceDecember 13
Conductor: Frédéric Chaslin and Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra
How can you go wrong with Tosca? The music flows and the drama compels.
This is an extremely opulent production. The sets were stunning. As is often the case with this company, the production values were very high while the singers were second tier.
Of the three principal singers, John Lundgren's Scarpia was the standout. He sang well and acted in a restrained yet menacing manner. Tosca was sung by Iana Tamar, who sang capably, acted well, yet did not blow me away. The weak link was Carlo Ventre's Cavaradossi. He has a peculiar pinched quality to his voice that initially made me wonder how he had ever gotten to the point of being hired to appear on stage. He seemed to be saving it all for his big number toward the end, E lucevan le stelle, which he got through competently.
The orchestra was, as always, outstanding. The small roles were overacted, as usual, with the crowd scene at the end of the first act ridiculously overcrowded with mincing choirboys. But, for the most part, the delights of this performance were the sets and the sounds coming from the orchestra pit.
Having seen Tosca performed by Pavarotti and Caballe in the late 70's, I guess I have been spoiled.
I just wish that for once Tosca could have a happier ending.
posted by Larry Wells @ 8:34 AM
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