This heavily cut performance succeeds in distilling the brilliance and exuberance of Berlioz's score in a nicely economical package. Music-wise, the title role is actually not that large, which in some ways is a blessing—otherwise, Nicolai Gedda would completely dominate the whole performance with his exceptional style and superb vocalism. That would be a shame because he is sharing the stage with some exceptionally talented singers. Andrée Esposito is excellent as Teresa, and Nicola Ghiuselev stops the show during his 9th inning entrance. There is some sporadic light static throughout the performance.