Search - Puccini - Tosca / Dessi, Armiliato, Raimondi, Benini, Madrid Opera on DVD

A good Tosca with an outstanding Scarpia

Richard | Minneapolis, Mongolia | 10/19/2004

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This is a very good Tosca. Dessi is a little shrill but otherwise good and a good actor. Her real life husband Armiliato is very good. Where has this man been hiding? Good actor as well. But the show belongs to Raimondi who exudes evil and menace as Scarpia. Benini gives us a fairly slow performance which allows us to luxuriate in Puccini's melodies. The ochestral sound is quite thrilling in DTS. The production is on the lame side. They have made Scarpia a church figure although what kind is hard to say. Certainly a cardinal or bishop would not wear pants but a surplice. The settings are quite dark. You never do get a good glimpse of Scarpia's palace. But at least nothing interferes with this wonderful performance. Probably that best Tosca one could hope for today."

Excellent production, brilliant singing, masterful acting!

BlackSea | Atlanta, GA USA | 02/23/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This "Tosca" is a pure joy for the eyes and the ears. Daniella Dessi, Fabio Armiliato, and Ruggero Raimondi form the cast of fascinating principal characters. Director Nuria Espert has created an original environment where power, love, desire, and revenge intertwine in many ways. Dessi's Tosca is a true Diva--simultaneously flirtacious and somewhat enchanted by Scarpia. Armiliato's Cavaradossi is a sunny soul with a good heart and lots of love for the Diva. Baron Scarpia is brilliantly portrayed by Raimondi whose magnetic presence is felt in even the smallest of sounds and exchanges. His Scarpia is a powerful man, reserved and yet sensual, highly emotional and torn by contradictions.

The chemistry between the characters is palpable and present in every word and gesture, which makes this "Tosca" one of the most exciting and beautiful experiences you can have."