Alongside the 1962 Schwarzkopf performance, my favourite Rosenkavalier

Of Strauss' operas, all of which I either love or admire very much, Der Rosenkavalier is my favourite. I just love how the story and comedy sparkle and the soaring melodies of Strauss' score. Although I am a big fan of the 1985 and 1994 performances, this 1979 production ranks alongside the 1962 Schwarzkopf, Edelmann, Rothenberger and Jurinac performance as my favourite Der Rosenkavalier. For one, the production looks very elegant visually, the Marshallin's costumes are particularly wonderful, and while not as clean in technical values as the 1985 and 1994 productions like Schenk's Die Fledermaus there is a certain charm to how it is presented. The orchestral playing is full of character and lushness in the Waltz-like music and the final trio(which is everything it ought to be, sublime) and Carlos Kleiber's conducting is fresh and efficient in interpretation. The singing is wonderful. Manfred Jungwirth is not one of my favourite Baron Ochs', I think Hawlata(though the role is too low for him I feel), Edelmann and especially Moll succeed in bringing humanity to a role that can be potentially annoying, however he does have a sonorous voice and his acting doesn't resort too much to hamminess. The three ladies are far more successful though. Gwyneth Jones is really superb in a warm, deeply-felt and nuanced performance, that mixes playfulness, melancholy and thoughtfulness brilliantly, that couldn't be more different to Leonore and Brunnhilde, while Brigitte Fassbaender is my personal favourite Octavian since Jurinac, I just love her powerful voice and her aristocratic and amorous way of acting especially in the presentation of the rose scene. Even better is the Sophie of Lucia Popp, the silvery clarity of her vocal production, her musicality and beautiful stage presence is another performance with her Pamina to remember this (ultimely) late great soprano by. Overall, simply wonderful. 10/10 Bethany Cox

German cinema is famous for its historical depth, expressionist aesthetics, and social-political engagement. It has moved from Expressionism to political reckoning, from New German Cinema's raw realism to contemporary genre experiments. Its legacy lies in both technical innovation and deep explorations of history, morality, and philosophy.

The comedy genre refers to a category of entertainment that aims to amuse and entertain audiences by using humor, wit, and comedic situations. Comedies are created with the primary intention of eliciting laughter and providing lighthearted enjoyment. They encompass a wide range of styles, tones, and themes, appealing to various tastes and audiences.

Will Ferrell, Angela Grillo, and Lap-Gei Cheung in Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy (2004)

The music genre features stories showcasing musical performances, music-related documentaries and recordings of live concerts and music festivals.

Prince and Apollonia Kotero in Purple Rain (1984)

The romance genre features the theme of romantic relationships and emotional connections between characters. These stories focus on the development of love, desire, and intimacy between protagonists, often exploring the challenges, conflicts, and triumphs that arise in their relationships.

Ingrid Bergman and Humphrey Bogart in Casablanca (1942)

Get a closer look at some of Hollywood's perfect pairs.

Hollywood Power Couples

Get a closer look at some of Hollywood&#39;s perfect pairs.

See which big screen releases you can watch from the comfort of your couch.

Theatrical Releases Coming to Streaming

Get a closer look at these actors from their many TV and streaming series roles.

Der Rosenkavalier

Photos

Top Cast31

User reviews1

Related interests

Storyline

Did you know

Top picks

Details

Tech specs

Contribute to this page

More to explore

Recently viewed