Lehar: Die lustige Witwe (In French) - Stich-Randall, Henneveux, Jacquin, Legay; Sibert. Paris, 1970
$16.95
Description:
This recording of The Merry Widow captures Teresa Stich-Randall towards the end of her career. Fortunately the role of Hanna Glawari (in this French language version referred to as Missia Palmieri) is forgiving to the ravages of time, and she proves a regal and moving presence in Lehár wistful comedy. Jean Guy Henneveux’s Danilo brings to mind both the charm and modest vocal abilities of Maurice Chevalier. The rest of the cast is good. The recording is in excellent stereo sound.
OD 11354-2
Listen to a Sample:
Merry Widow Goes Well in French!
Opera Depot has a number of releases in the "wrong" language, a number of which are delightful. This is one of them. La Veuve Joyeuse was very popular in France, the sensuous waltz melodies suiting the French language very well. Stich-Randall sings quite expressively and certainly has the presence to be the star of the show. Some of her top notes are cut short and she ventures nothing higher than B (the one written C in Act Two is artfully dodged.) I don't know if that's her in the dialogue, but if it's not the actress is very good with a voice that sounds sufficiently like Stich-Randall's to be convincing. Henneveux's Danilo is the ladies man to perfection, singing with a tenor-tone that fits the style perfectly. Legay sings well although he too was a little past his vocal prime by 1970. He is still able to reach top C in his beautiful Act Two aria. Jacquin is all right as Nadia (Valencienne), her tone appropriate, but a little watery. The other singers sing well and speak their dialogue as if they're really enjoying themselves. Sibert leads a joyous performance that makes one glad to be alive. Be aware that there is a lot of dialogue here; I'm glad it was not edited out. The audience loves what they're seeing and hearing and so will you. The sound is excellent broadcast stereo.
Beautiful Widow
This is a beautiful version of Merry Widow in French. Stich Randall fans should enjoy this immensely. While she strains a bit, her beautiful sound can be found throughout this performance. The rest of the cast is fine although I am not familiar with them. The sound is excellent in this live performance. Buy and enjoy.
