La Gioconda is an opera that can only thrive when performers capable of igniting its drama take the stage. Sadly, a dearth of such singers has relegated it to the fringes of the repertoire today. This performance harkens back to a different time, when a cast could infuse Ponchielli’s imperfect masterpiece with intensity, musical style, and artistic honesty.

Renata Tebaldi, in the title role, pairs sumptuous vocalism with proto-verismo intensity. Gianfranco Cecchele is an ideal Enzo, singing with lyricism while matching Tebaldi in vocal stature. Anselmo Colzani’s suave Barnaba and Franca Mattiucci’s lush Laura round out this legendary cast.