Attila

As a big fan of Verdi and of opera, I was interested in seeing Attila after hearing Sherrill Milnes singing Ezio's e Gettata la Mia Sorte from the late 60s(he did a recording in 1972 too but this particular performance was more agile, punchy and focused in pitch, also he does a thrilling high B flat in it).

Attila, like Ernani and Luisa Miller, was a Verdi opera I didn't know much about other than the basic plot line until earlier this year. After hearing it I am surprised I didn't see or hear much about it before. The story did draw me in, Attila is a very charismatic and involving lead character and the music is as is always the case with Verdi is absolutely wonderful.

This 1991 production is very powerful and atmospheric. The sets and lighting are superb, and the costumes particularly Attila's look imposing in general, though I wasn't entirely sure about the Huns dressing in blue and pink at first.

Attila is imaginatively staged and directed without straying too far from the basic story and the dramatics of the music, and Riccardo Muti's conducting and the orchestra under his baton are spot on.

This production of Attila also has fine performances, the best coming from Samuel Ramey in the title role who is just magnificent. He has a very resonant voice, and his stage presence is so magnetic and compelling. Also excellent is Cheryl Studer as Odabella, especially in her acting which is riveting right from the opening scene. She also possesses a beautiful voice, if rather pushed at times.

Kuludi Kuludov is a solid Forresto, and Giorgio Zancanaro a fine Ezio, particularly during e Gettata la Mia Sorte which is done with a lot of agility and nobility.

All in all, a wonderful production. 9/10 Bethany Cox