Across the board, this is a thoroughly enjoyable performance of Un Ballo in Maschera. José Carreras, still in his twenties, delivers a performance marked by purity of tone and freshness, paired with an innate understanding of Verdi's style. Ghena Dimitrova alternates between dramatic outbursts that could rival any Wagnerian soprano and displays of exquisitely crafted legato singing. Piero Cappuccilli completes the cast with his commanding portrayal of Anckarström.

How often do the stars align to bring together not one, not two, but three titans like this under the same roof?