Fidelio (1991) with Gabriela Benackova

For my first review, I may as well start with the best. This is one of my very favorite opera recordings!

Fidelio
1991 Royal Opera House, Covent Garden performance
featuring Gabriela Benackova and Josef Protschka
124 Minutes; Image Entertainment DVD (also available on VHS)

When you combine Beethoven’s superb music with the remarkable voice of Gabriela Benackova, there’s only one thing wrong: it’s over too soon. In my opinion, this is simply the BEST “Fidelio” out there, film or recording. Gabriela Benackova shines as Leonore. Her “Abscheulicher!” is so thrilling that it’s over before you know it. Monte Pederson’s “Ha welch ein augenblick” and Marie McLaughlin’s “O war ich schon” are only a couple of the highlights of this performance.
Definitely worth the time!



Here is a sample video from this film.