Don Carlo

Don Carlo Met Opera Live in HD

I have seen many operas in the past few years. This surely was one of the best. It was five glorious hours of fine Verdi music and magnificent singing. Some of the arias are very difficult and yet the opera stars mastered every note in that demanding performance.

The very young French Canadian Conductor, Yannick Nezet-Seguin charmed everybody. Apparently he is the new darling of the music world. It was great to see him being interviewed during one of the intermissions. Several of the cast members also were interviewed. I love seeing them in a heavy dramatic role and then they step off the stage and you meet the real person in a very different personality. It is magic. You are also privileged to see many of the set changes.

I don’t know how the director was able to choreograph such a large cast. I loved the pageantry. The costumes were also great.

I think I will always remember the scene when King Phillip comes out of the golden cathedral wearing elaborate clothes. He is flanked on wither side by cardinals in flowing red costumes. The rest of the stage is filled with the Spanish people in dark somber outfits. Every note sung was perfect. It sent chills up my spine.

Don Carlo was sung by Roberto Alagna. I really enjoy all his performances.

Don Carlo is madly in love with Elisabeth De Valois. She was stately and serene and sang magnificently. Elisabeth marries Carlo’s father, King Phillip. Don Carlo is in pain and wants desperately to be with Elisabeth. He also wants to be the Flemish leader to help save the people from the terrible conditions they face. King Phillip blocks him in every move.

This is an opera so of course there has to be intrigue, drama and excitement. This opera has it all.

The encore production is on Jan 22 at 12:30 pm.

The Met Operas are shown simultaneously from New York in 30 countries. You can see the performances in any of 6 theatres in Toronto. You must purchase a seat ahead of time. The seats are so reasonable and all are reserved. You can visit the theatre ahead of time or buy a ticket on line.

Go to www.cineplex.com/events

I am already looking forward to La Fanciulla Del West on January 8 and Nixon In China on February 12.

The interviews at intermission are fascinating. The performance allows you to see every detail up close. You hear and see the best opera in the world. I couldn’t miss one performance.