Prokofiev's WAR AND PEACE is not as huge, size wise, as Tolstoy's novel, but it comes close.
Over 3 and a half hours long, the main problem for every theater is that there are very many different settings within the two parts of this epic opera.
Stage Director Francesca Zambello (When will we finally get her 'Amahl and the Night Visitors' on DVD ??!!!!!) has found a solution to that problem that is as eloquent as it is effective. Everything on stage as well as the floor itself moves and shifts and gives us a new setting for every scene. Minimalism within a rich and lavish production; an exciting combination !
The use of color and of lighting is very convincing too. And the sheer numbers of chorus and actors and soloists on stage is breathtaking.
Prokofiev's huge opera has found a good home in France, and on the TDK DVD. And the delicate balance of a doomed love set in a grizzling war shines through, from the very first minute till the last bow of the players. In the cast there is no weak link, and it would be too harsh to single anyone out (but boy, does this Nathan Gunn gives some superb performance here !!).
This is Grand Opera, and a majestic viewing !
