DVD 11913 MATILDE DI SHABRAN (Rossini)

Rossini at his best. A very complicated opera to perform, however the whole cast and orchestra did an excellent job, especially Olga. I did not pay too much attention to the story. Highly recommended. Maan Baki

The ensemble singing was excellent!

Olga Peretyatko as Matilde was exceptional; live performance but never missed a note. Perfection on the first take! It's hard to imagine Florez as a villain, but he pulled it off beautifully and his comic love scenes are priceless. Supporting cast also excellent. Rossini fans will love this. Recommended!

210 Minutes. Marvelous singing and music. Flores' best yet. English subtitles are fine. Sets are sparce and backgrounds are dark but not a problem. This is classic Rossini with excellent duets, trios, quartets, etc. You will definitely enjoy it and be stimulated. Whats it about? Introduction, love found, love lost and love rediscovered.

In every way-music-sets-photography-singing-acting, this rare, musically energetic opera is worth getting. The cast is superb. Very enjoyable is the "poet" Paolo Bordogna. The trouser roll by Anna Goryachova showcases a most beautiful and warm mezzo voice. "Matilde" is a lovely accomplished bel-canto charmer and Flores' humorous touch at his conversion by love from an "iron-hearted" misogynist is effective. The plot - is an absurd pastiche of cruelty/comedy and social commentary. It is 3 1/2 hours of wonderful music - and (of course) a happy ending. Rossini fans do get their money's worth! Rare and worth it!