This is an excellent version of one of the greatest of all comic operas, featuring superb singing and orchestral playing. And it's not just the two headliners; listen, for example, to the entrance of the stepsisters at the beginning of Act One. Nevertheless, some viewers may find the staging problematic, with singers in clown-like costumes and sets featuring human-sized rodents. Those seeking a more conventional production might want to consider the Houston Grand Opera DVD, also on Decca, with Cecilia Bartoli and Raul Jimenez. Both sets are wonderful, but, for me, Joyce Didonato and Juan Diego Florez are slightly to be preferred. Highly recommended.

Cast

Juan Diego Flórez

Don Ramiro

Joyce DiDonato

Angelina

David Menéndez

Dandini

Itxaro Mentxaka

Tisbe

Patrick Summers

Conductor

Bruno de Simone

Don Magnifico

Cristina Obregón

Clorinda

Simón Orfila

Alidoro