Thaïs

Jules Massenet (1842–1912)

DESCRIPTION

Jeannette Pilou brings considerable glamour and charm to the title role of Thaïs, while maintaining a commendable degree of emotional sincerity. Her Act III monologue, “O messager de Dieu,” proves particularly affecting, shaped with thoughtful phrasing and inner intensity. However, she is less secure in the upper extremes of the part; those anticipating interpolated high Ds will find them absent. Ryan Edwards delivers a forceful and compelling Athanaël, his attractive baritone imbued with both fervor and discipline, well-suited to the role’s ascetic fervor. Kenneth Riegel, though confined to the relatively modest role of Nicias, leaves a favorable impression with his clear projection and stylish delivery.

CAST

Thaïs – Jeannette Pilou
Athanaël – Ryan Edwards
Nicias – Kenneth Riegel
Palémon – Pierre Charbonneau
Albine – Batyah Godfrey

DETAILS

Location: Miami
Date: March 8, 1976
Conductor: Emerson Buckley
Catalogue Number: OD 12280-2
Label: Opera Depot
Number of Discs: 2
In Mono

Act I

Act II

Act III