Stiffelio

(Verdi – MET) 1993. This is a wonderfully strong performance of Verdi’s opera, unequalled on either CD of DVD. Plácido Domingo’s performance of the title character is truly magnificent, and he uses his burnished sound and powerful delivery to convey the many aspects of this hero. James Levine is the other hero of this performance with his regal pacing and dramatic sense of timing he elicits remarkable portrayals from the entire cast. Vladimir Chernov and Paul Plishka give wonderful performances, while Sharon Sweet, lovely of voice, is the opera’s only dramatically unconvincing performance.

With Sharon Sweet, Plácido Domingo, Peter Riberti, Vladimir Chernov, Paul Plishka; James Levine conducts. Subtitled. Region Code: 0.