Description:

Richard Bonynge’s greatest contribution to music, aside from his collaborations with Joan Sutherland, may be his championing of obscure repertoire that showcased her skill. Le Roi de Lahore is a prime example, a grand French opera with a commanding role for Sutherland, who is in excellent voice as the conflicted priestess Sita.

Bonynge lavishes care over a slightly trimmed edition of the score, particularly in the fantasy after-life sequence of Act III. Ronald Stevens’ bright, supple voice is perfectly suited to the role of Alim, while a young James Morris wields his powerful bass with authority as the priest Timour. Cornelius Opthof uses his rather rough baritone to advantage as the villainous Scindia, and there are fine cameo performances from Spiro Malas and Huguette Tourangeau. The sound is a little distant but remains clear.

In Mono

OD 11315-2