I Puritani (2010)

In this highdefinition film of Bellinis historical bel canto drama I Puritani tenor superstar Juan Diego Flórez is partnered by new young Georgian soprano Nino Machaidze in her first appearance on a Decca DVD Joining them in a striking new staging by PierAlli at the Teatro Comunale di Bologna is celebrated bass baritone Ildebrando DArcangelo DG The context is Englands Civil War between the Roundheads the Parliamentarians or Puritans of the title and the Cavaliers Royalists A love triangle between Arturo a Puritan Riccardo a Royalist and the beautiful Elvira results in a drama of escapes disguises and captures during which Elvira loses her reason before a final pardon restores her senses and unites her with her beloved Arturo The lead tenor role is notoriously difficult and Juan Diego Flórez shows no strain or difficulty throughout the role Opera fans will undoubtedly be impressed with the overall production and the tenors performance in particular