Iris by Mascagni never secured a place in the operatic canon, despite being arguably more musically sophisticated than Cavalleria rusticana. Although set in Japan, Mascagni avoids the familiar orientalist tropes that Puccini embraced, instead focusing on the inner emotional life of his protagonists. The result is an opera with the visceral impact characteristic of verismo, while also providing a platform for great singers to shine — and shine they do.

Clara Petrella brings ethereal grace and deep dramatic reserves to the title role. As Osaka, Giuseppe Di Stefano seizes every opportunity to unleash his peerless tenor, delivering a freshness of tone that would elude him just a few years later. Boris Christoff lends his signature warmth and gravitas to the role of Il Cieco.