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Customer Reviews for LA Opera - Don Carlo

2 Customer reviews
Overall
3.5/5

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A very dark and moving experience

5/5
Robert W. Monfrini from Los Angeles, California
23rd September 2018

Don Carlos is a very dark and moving theatre going experience. Historically based and wonderfully sung by a world class cast. Placido Domingo (as Rodrigo) shows he can still deliver a world class performance. Ramon Vargas as Don Carlos is moving as is Ana Maria Martinez (Elisabeth) and Ferruccio Furlanetto as King King Philip II. Anna Smirnova is absolutely amazing as Princess Eboli, delivering an amazing soprano/ mezzo-soprano performance that takes your breath away. Can't overlook Morris Robinson as the dark and sinister "Grand Inquisitor" who almost has complete control over everything. Yes, its long, 3 1/2 hours, but once you get into the story, get to know the characters and listen to the genius of Verdi you'll be enthralled. Production values and huge cast add to the emotion and your personal involvement in viewing this Verdi masterpiece.

old and tired

2/5
LAOperafan from Los Angeles, California
23rd September 2018

Don Carlo is arguably one of Verdi's greatest achievements and there have been many riveting productions featuring amazing singers over the years. Certainly Placido Domingo was one of the great Carlos himself, but now we are subjected to him singing Rodgrigo a supporting baritone role. Is it my imagination or has Mr. Domingo cleverly cast this production to make himself shine? No one can quibble with the excellent shape of his voice and convincing acting. But I can quibble with the weaker singers around him. Ramon Vargas and Ana Maria Martinez, wonderful singers both straining to sing roles that are too dramatic for them. Furlanetto just plain sounds old and tired. Anna Smirnova is full throttle all night and leaves any subtlety behind. Worst offender is the non-staging of Ian Judge. Bark and honk in traditional costumes seems to have been his stage direction. Only James Conlon's conducting remains exciting, but this is a long opera & not worth the hefty ticket price (or time)