Cavalleria Rusticana requires a cast of remarkable depth and sensitivity to transcend its verismo trappings and reveal the opera's full emotional force—something this performance accomplishes with striking success. Elena Souliotis, though past her vocal peak, still wields enough of her formidable instrument to deliver Santuzza's anguish with a mix of abandon and haunting lyricism. Gianfranco Cecchele is an ideal Turridù, his suave tenor making it easy to understand Santuzza's infatuation. Giangiacomo Guelfi brings imposing vocal weight to Alfio, imbuing the character with real menace. At the podium, Riccardo Muti shapes the score with a master's touch, balancing tension and tenderness. While the beginning of the Santuzza/Turridù duet is missing, the remainder of the performance is compelling and emotionally vivid.