The Makropulos Case

One of the great operas, in one of the great productions. Anja Silja proves herself a stunning screen actress in this faithful video reproduction of Nicholas Lehnhoff's imaginative and deeply moving stage production (which I saw twice, when it was at Brooklyn Academy of Music -- I had to go back because I couldn't believe my eyes or ears!). For a glimpse of what opera can be at its best, this is it. One warning: Silja's voice is a bit past its prime -- but stay tuned (no spoiler!) it is highly appropriate to the role! (Her voice always had a pronounced "beat" in the top; it's still there, but this is not, in this instance, an effect of aging, as is often the case. Nor is it, as some have suggested about Callas, an intentional "effect.") The supporting cast is not quite what it was at BAM, but all very fine singers (if not necessarily visually the most appropriate possible).

The Makropulos Case is not one of Janacek's best operas, Jenufa and The Cunning Little Vixen I have always much preferred, but any Janacek is always worth hearing once and The Makropulos Case is no exception. This production is simply wonderful, Nikolaus Lehnhoff's staging is moving in its impact and also imaginative while remaining faithful to the story and Janacek. Act 2 is the most successful in this respect. The costume and set designs are simple but elegant looking, apart from Silja's bizarre outfit in Act 3, and while it jumps around a little too much in the first act the video directing is unobtrusive. The orchestra play beautifully and the conducting from Andrew Davis is exemplary, on the same level as Charles Mackerras I'd say. I can't fault the performances are exceptional, Victor Braun characterises splendidly and Kim Begley sing with a strong unstrained tone. It is lovely also to see Christopher Ventris and Robert Tear and they acquit themselves well. Best of all is Anja Silja, while a little more effort could have been made to make her look younger she otherwise embodies her role in a powerful and poignant manner, and even with the beat in some of her top notes her singing is in good shape. All in all, loved this production a lot and thought that Silja was incredible. 9.5/10 Bethany Cox