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.

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.