Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #69880 in DVD
• Released on: 2006-10-02
• Rating: Exempt
• Aspect ratio: 1.33:1
• Number of discs: 1
• Formats: Classical, Colour, DVD-Video, PAL, Subtitled
• Original language: English, French, Spanish
• Subtitled in: German, English, Spanish, French
• Number of discs: 1
• Running time: 147 minutes

Synopsis
An English National Opera production of Britten's Gloriana live from the London Coliseum, 1984.

Customer Reviews

A glorious Gloriana -
I own the other two versions of this Opera on commercial release. I have to say that the Opera North (heavily edited) version has wonderful psychologically arresting performances. However, this 1983 ENO production has better vocalists in all the central roles. Whilst I prefer the emotional intensity of the Opera North production (Barstow is as fine an Elizabeth I as any on stage or screen), the drama is just as high in the ENO production because the vocalists are so fine; Sarah Walker has a steadier voice than Barstow's rather more 'superannuated' one. However, the orchestra is the most powerful recommendation for this DVD. The intensity of the orchestral performance is a revelation.

This is a glorious sounding Gloriana and has made me realise how special this opera is. This is far from being Britten's 'damp squib' composition. Indeed, I find it a work of great beauty, both subtle and thrilling. The finale is terribly moving. Britten surpassed himself for dramatic intensity in what was a composition of genius. This production helps us see just how good the opera is in the right hands. I recommend it. However, if you have the resources buy the Opera North one as well.