

December 1, 1988
2h 39m
IT
Claus Viller
Live performance from Schwetzinger Festspiele, 1988. What sets this IL BARBIERE DI SIVIGLIA apart from all others available is its elegant realism. None of its visuals are the least bit cartoonish or blatantly designed for comedy. Dr. Bartolo’s house is a stark, stern-looking structure of plastered brick with a comfortable yet plain, white-curtained interior, while the costumes are highly realistic 18th century garb in subdued colors. Yet despite its fairly austere appearance the production is delightful, thanks to its performers and staging. The stage business is lively, witty and free of excessive slapstick, and every singer brings his or her character to life, all offering rich, vibrant characterizations that strike a perfect balance between comedy and humanity.

Gino Quilico
Figaro, a barber

Cecilia Bartoli
Rosina

David Kuebler
Count Almaviva, alias Lindoro

Cesare Sterbini
1

Carlos Feller
Doctor Bartolo

Robert Lloyd
Don Basilio

Klaus Bruch
Fiorello

Edith Kertesz-Gabry
Berta

Paul Keppeler
Ambrogio

Eberhard Katz
Sergeant

Gustav Lütgenthey
Notary
Schwetzingen Festival
N/A

Süddeutscher Rundfunk
DE

EuroArts
DE
Arthaus Musik
DE