Mayr: Che originali! & Donizetti: Pigmalione (2017) [Blu-ray]

Pigmalione was Gaetano Donizetti’s first opera, written to a libretto by Simeone Antonio Sografi in just two weeks when he was 19. Donizetti himself defined Pigmalione as a 'lyrical scene'. It was his only work to be based on a mythological subject and tells the story of a sculptor whose statue comes alive. The main role is sung by Antonino Siragusa, who gives a masterful interpretation with his polished and colourful voice, especially in the substantial recitatives. Japanese soprano Aya Wakizono gives an excellent performance in the role of Galatea, her enticing voice well suited to the demands of the short part. Che Originali! is a little-known, one-act farce based on a libretto by Gaetano Rossi. It immediately established itself as one of the most successful operas by Giovanni Simone Mayr, who was Donizetti’s teacher. The opera tells the story of a music fanatic, Don Febeo, who insists that, in his house, everybody must know and love music. The role of the protagonist, Febeo, is performed by Bruno de Simone, an excellent actor with a clear, precise voice, and a master of rapidly articulated passages.

Theatre: Teatro Sociale di Bergamo – Festival Donizetti 2017