Search - Massenet - Cherubin on DVD

Charm Triumphant

Randy Buck | Brooklyn, NY USA | 03/24/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Massenet's operas, long unfashionable and neglected save for MANON, WERTHER, and the occasional THAIS mounted for a particularly sexy diva, are ripe for rediscovery by modern audiences; they still hold much charm and many melodic pleasures. This production of CHERUBIN, hardly seen since Mary Garden's success in the Monte Carlo premiere, is a good place to start exploring. Another Amazon reviewer here has objected to the staging and design, finding them too chilly to complement the material. To my eye, while they're rather the usual contemporary European one-from-column-A-one-from-column-B approach to opera visuals (the costumes range from exaggerated period to Folies Bergere, with a stop in the 1920s and the odd 1960's neon set element), they're colorful, witty and fun, and don't hinder enjoyment a jot. The chocolate-box side of Massenet's usual flood of lush melody's strong enough to survive this approach; his high romanticism's still front and center. Indeed, a conventional period design approach might make this material seem altogether too dated. The cast is fine, visually and aurally, with the exception of Surian, who's a bit on the wobbly side. Altogether, great fun, and highly recommended."

Glam staging dilutes charm

D. Vierheller | Los Angeles, CA United States | 04/18/2007

(3 out of 5 stars)

"The chilly, Las Vegas style of this production suggests satire, but Massenet's honeyed score doesn't. This endearing opera could really bloom in a sincere staging. Michelle Breedt portrays believable impetuousness in the title role depite the antic scene, singing with suavity and fresh, lovely tone. Patrizia Ciofi as the glamorous Ensoleillad enchants us with gorgeous voice, technical mastery, and stirring lyricism. Carmela Remigio as the innocent Nina sings and acts sweetly. The other soloists, chorus and orchestra perform expertly under Emmanuel Villaume."