Mussorgsky: Khovanshchina - DVD

ENGLISH

Mussorgsky: Khovanshchina (OA0989D) (2007)<br /> <br /> Vladimir Ognovenko (Ivan Khovansky); Vladimir Galouzine (Andrei Khovansky); Robert Brubaker (Vasily Golitsyn); Nikolai Putilin (Shaklovity); Vladimir Vaneev (Dosifei); Elena Zaremba (Marfa); Orchestra & Chorus of the Gran Teatre del Liceu; Michael Boder<br /> <br /> Mussorgsky's loveless and brutal drama of the transformation of Russian society, which led to the rule of Peter the Great within the epic history of Russia, is powerfully modernised through Stein Winge's dramatic and uncompromising production. Performing the version completed by Shostakovich, the outstanding Russian-dominated cast and the orchestra and chorus of the Liceu are led by Michael Boder. Recorded using High Definition cameras and in true surround sound.<br /> <br /> "The cast was clearly superior to the one in Brussels . Vladimir Ognovenko's Khovansky was magnificent both vocally and dramatically, creating a really 'hideous' character...Nikolai Putilin made a great Shaklovity... Vladimir Galouzine was an impressive Andrei Khovansky...The chorus gave a magnificent performance...Michael Boder's musical direction is superb..." (Mundoclasico.com)<br /> <br /> "The recent Liceu DVD version of the Shostakovich score...has a great deal going for it. First of all, Vladimir Ognovenko as Prince Ivan Khovansky and Vladimir Galouzine as his son are both impressive actor-singers and Vladimir Vaneev's Dosifei almost steals the show. What is particularly striking...is the choral singing, which is not lacking in the black tone and strength of Slavonic rivals. Stein Winge's production is intelligent and unobtrusive and the camera-work is excellent: the eye is always where the ear wants it to be." (The Penguin Guide)<br /> <br /> "Gran Teatre del Liceu have produced a number of fine DVDs and this Khovanshchina can be added to that list...I was deeply touched by the present issue, which powerfully delineates the horrifying conflicts that continue to befall mankind.<br /> <br /> " (Musicweb International)