DVD 10151 MANRU (Paderewski)

I agree with the previous reviewers on all counts. The story is perfect subject matter for opera; an impossible love affair ending in tragedy for everyone. Great music! The subtitles went by too fast to read at times; otherwise, no issues with the DVD.

This late romantic style music is wonderfully blended with the story of lovers, Ulana, outcast for living with the gypsy, Manru. Manru is torn by his love for her, but longs for the gypsy caravans' eternal wandering. The voices are excellent and also is the acting (and I am very picky). A Carmenesque gypsy who tries to lure Manru back is a visual and vocal knockout who should also do Carmen. My favorite music was the violinist's on stage obligatto, gorgeously played. He was called the Master of Yearning, also trying to lure Manru back to the fold. Well worth watching for most any opera lover

The production of Manru is fairly modern in costume and simple scenery. The singing and acting are excellent. Picture and sould quality are excellent. There are English subtitles embedded. CAST Manru – Janusz Ratajczak (tenor) Ulana – Wioletta Chodowicz (soprano) Jadwiga – Barbara Krahel (mezzo-soprano) Urok – Leszek Skrla (baritone) Aza – Monika Ledzion (mezzo-soprano) Oros – Jacek Greszta (bass) Jaga – Lukasz Golinski (bass) Mlody Cygan (Young Gypsy) – Marcin Naruszewicz (tenor) Mloda Dziewczyna (Young Girl) – Magdalena Polkowska (soprano) Chorus, Ballet, and Orchestra Opery Nova w Bydgoszczy Maciej Figas – conductor Poland 2006