DVD 6811 ANNA BOLENA (Donizetti)

I already had the Vienna performance of Anna Bolena, with Netrebko, Garanca, Meli and D'arcangelo and purchased this version on account of the three x 5 stars reviews. Already have several CD's and DVD's with Devia so knew what to expect and of course I got it. The camera was obviously an 'in house' as the picture was quite distant with only some semi close-ups - but this is OK. What was not quite so good was the sound. The microphones were more distant and there was an overall echoing of the sound. Together with that there were sometimes equipment noises. Still the overall sound was satisfactory and I am pleased to have a different version in my collection.

I concur with both of the above reviews. But its a long evening.All the cuts and repeats have been opened up..and I,for one enjoyed it very much.But its an hour longer than the CDs of Gencer or Callas..so be prepared.No titles,which is OK with those of us who know the Italiano..but for others,maybe its better to take an hour at a time,have a coffee break,glance at the libretto, and return again.Meli and Domaschenko are names new to me,but they are excellent.,The miracle is Devia,always am interesting artist..but to sing something like Anna Bolena at 59 years takes guts..as well as a voice.I heard her years ago at Pesaro in Comte Ory..and did not think the voice would develop to the point where she could sing the more demanding heroines.But it has..and she does.Really an exceptional release.Thanks Ed.Ted W

This dvd has no credit at the beginnig or at the end. One the Music start you now that you are goining to see Anna Bolena.I have seen most of the great Diva's like Caballe,La Stupenda Dame Joan,and many others. Mariella Davia as Anna Bolena is excellent vovally as well as her acting.The Russian Mezzo Marina Domaschenko is very convincing Jane Seymour also a excellent voice.Francesco Meli as Percy is doing a outstanding job,I have never hear about him before he has a very clear voice and good stage present.Michele Pertusi As Henry VIII has a beautiful bas voice.I am glad that I got this dvd,I think it is a must to view.It is from 2007 at Verona not Arena di Verona thank God.3hrs.20 mins.Excellent Picture & sound.Last time I saw Ms Davis was at the MET as Lucia as always she was great,but that production was absolutly a disaster.

I came to this performance with no great expectations,having heard Sutherland,Sills,Scotto,Callas,Souliotis,Galvany and Gencer in the role-however,I thoroughly enjoyed this performance,the production is on the utility side,but very effective.Meli is a name new to me,very good,a nice voice,and acts well.Pertusi is one of my favourite Bass's,a very commanding Henry both physically and vocally(he even has red hair here!)Domaschenko gives a great performance as Seymour,without quite making me forget Simionato in the same role,but with more ease on top.Now to our poor heroine,Mariella Devia is a latecomer to my collection,and a favourite,she portrays Anna very well,her acting dignified but believable,vocally she dares all for the drama,never coming unstuck,truly a singing actress of the first order. i would ask everyone to buy this if they wish to hear a great performance of a great opera.