Description

Georges Bizet: Carmen - Wiener Staatsoper Live 1978 Blu-ray

!!! Condition of this item is USED LIKE NEW !!! As pictured !!!

Product Information

UPC: 807280909791
Product Type: Opera Blu-ray
Genre: Classical Opera
Languages: French (original)
Subtitles: French, English, German, Italian, Spanish, Chinese
Format: Blu-ray Disc (25GB Single Layer)
Running Time: 154 minutes
Video Format: 4:3, 1080i High Definition (Upscale)
Audio: PCM Stereo
Region Code: Worldwide (All Regions)
Distributor: Arthaus Musik GmbH
Release Year: 2015 (original performance 1978)
Series: Legendary Performances

Overview

This Blu-ray presents a historically significant performance of Georges Bizet's "Carmen" from the Vienna State Opera in 1978, conducted by the legendary Carlos Kleiber. This production is particularly noteworthy as it was the only premiere Kleiber ever conducted in his highly selective career. Directed for the stage by renowned filmmaker Franco Zeffirelli, the performance features an exceptional cast headed by Russian mezzo-soprano Elena Obraztsova as Carmen and Plácido Domingo, still in his prime as a lyrical tenor, as Don José. Obraztsova's interpretation offers a refreshingly natural portrayal of Carmen, avoiding the typical clichéd characterization. The cast is completed by Isobel Buchanan, who stepped into the production on short notice, and Yuri Mazurok, who would later become a distinguished Verdi baritone. This ORF (Austrian Broadcasting Corporation) filming captures a performance that was hailed as a triumph by the Viennese audience and stands as an invaluable document in Carlos Kleiber's limited but extraordinary musical legacy.

Product Features

Format: Blu-ray Disc (25GB Single Layer) with worldwide region coding
Video: 4:3 aspect ratio, 1080i High Definition (upscaled from original source)
Audio: PCM Stereo
Subtitles: Six languages (French, English, German, Italian, Spanish, Chinese)
Running Time: 154 minutes
Part of the "Legendary Performances" series from Arthaus Musik
Produced by ORF (Austrian Broadcasting Corporation)

Interesting Facts

Carlos Kleiber's Rare Operatic Legacy

Carlos Kleiber (1930-2004) was one of the most enigmatic and perfectionist conductors of the 20th century, famous for his extremely limited repertoire and small number of performances. His documented opera legacy consists of just seven complete works, making any recording with him at the helm extraordinarily valuable. This "Carmen" is particularly significant as it represents the only opera premiere he ever conducted, a testament to his confidence in both Zeffirelli's production and the assembled cast.

Franco Zeffirelli's Theatrical Vision

Franco Zeffirelli, better known to many as a film director ("Romeo and Juliet," "Tea with Mussolini"), was also a highly influential opera director whose lavish, detailed productions became legendary at houses like the Metropolitan Opera and La Scala. This Vienna "Carmen" showcases his theatrical approach, with realistic sets, period costumes, and naturalistic acting that bridges the worlds of opera and cinema, creating a dramatically convincing version of Bizet's masterpiece.

Elena Obraztsova's Fresh Interpretation

Russian mezzo-soprano Elena Obraztsova (1939-2015) brought a distinctive approach to the title role, eschewing the common portrayal of Carmen as a one-dimensional seductress. Her interpretation emphasized the character's authenticity, independence, and complex psychology, supported by her rich vocal resources. This performance helped establish her as one of the leading interpreters of the role in the late 20th century, offering a thoughtful alternative to more conventional approaches.