GIUSEPPI VERDI Rigoletto
Recorded 2010 Sydney Opera House

Rigoletto

Alan Opie

Gilda

Emma Matthews

Duke of Mantua

Paul O’Neill

Sparafucile

David Parkin

Count Ceprano

Samuel Dundas

Count Monterone

Gennadi Dubinsky

Maddelena/Giovanna

Elizabeth Campbell

Opera Australia Chorus

Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra

Conductor

Giovanni Reggioli

Director

Elijah Moshinsky

One of Opera Australia's best-loved productions, Elijah Moshinsky's retelling of Rigoletto draws Verdi’s dark melodrama into a modern day mafioso underworld, inspired by Federico Fellini's all-time classic La Dolce Vita.

Heading a glittering international cast is baritone Alan Opie in a commanding performance as the tortured jester, with Emma Matthews taking on the role of Gilda and Paul O’Neil as the lustful Duke. Conductor Giovanni Reggioli masterfully captures the luscious yet fragile tones of Verdi’s much-loved score, with its feast of sublime singing. A classic opera for purists and first-timers alike.

‘A classic production that retains brilliance and style.... Matthews is an undoubted star.. (and) young tenor Paul O’Neill as the lubricious Duke has auspicious credentials for a fine career in opera.’ The Sydney Morning Herald

‘A success... Emma Matthews is a significant triumph, while Giovanni Reggioli's sensitive conducting draws elegant and evocative playing from the Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra.’ The Opera Critic

Opera Australia DVD OPOZ56009DVD