Search - Ambroise Thomas - Le Songe d'une nuit d'été / Raphanel, Gabriel, Courtis, Besnard, Swierczewski, Jourdan, Théâtre Impérial de Compiègne [Collection ''L'Opéra français''] on DVD

A French love letter to Shakespeare

Richard | Minneapolis, Mongolia | 12/12/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Don't let the title "Midsummer Night's Dream" throw you. This is not the play but rather a fantasy on Shaikespeare himself - kind of akin to Shakespeare in Love. But here Queen Elisabeth intervenes in a young Shakespeare's life to save him from debauchery with his friend Falstaff, and to turn him toward his true vocation of poet. France celebrated the opening of the Chunnel with this unknown work and a more appropriate selection could not be imagined. Even more intriguing is the original inspiration for the work. It had to be a special celebration - but for what? The work itself is largely uniknown - it only gets a mention in the Viking Opera Book.

Is it a missing masterpiece? Hardly. But it does not deserve obscurity. It is an intriguing book and sports music worth a listen. It lies very easy on the ear. The production is all one could wish. The setting is realistic. The magnificent costumes come from the Royal Shakespeare Company. The singers, none of whom I know, are wonderful, especially Raphanel's coloratura Elisabeth. Thomas works magic and I was left with a lump in my throat and a determination to dream this dream again."

Elegant, charming comedy

Susie L. Mclean | Tucker, GA United States | 03/02/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I agree with everything Richard Chilson said in his review, but would like to add a special kudo for Courtis' Falstaff. For once this character is humorous without resorting to fat jokes or crude slapstick. Another delight is the wonderful all-French cast performing a French opera in the proper style.



If you have a clutch of Nozze's and Elisir's and would like something different, try this lovely, rare work."