Die Fledermaus - Strauss / Pamela Armstrong, Thomas Allen, Glyndebourne Chorus, London Philharmonic, Opus Arte

This came today and couldn't wait to watch it Since "Fledermaus" is a favorite operetta. I first heard this operetta in 1952 when in the Air Force. I bought that recording and still have it. It is in English which is a far better libretto than German. I've since heard this on PBS done in 3 different librettos. The '52 version is still my favorite. This orchestra is very precise and exceptionally good,. The actors never had a single moment of fun on stage. The whole stage product is done with master machinist precision. All laughter came on precise cue with the "ha-ha-has" done by a marching army shouting out cadence. The audience laughed on cue and nothing funny was on stage. This is the most mechanically done stage production I've seen all done by German precision who kept in Army marching step all the way. The guy who played Alfred, Rosalinda's "lover," had as about much romantic appeal as someone calling in the hogs. He hardly fitted the part with his hair waxed so stiffly erect in a modern hairstyle. I've never seen anyone that looked more out of place and his acting was just as horrible. The 4 stars is for the orchestra which is superb. The singing is very precise by people who have magnificent voices. Had the cast actually had fun presenting this, I would say it was super, but alas, no such praise.

The operetta is lengthy, but has a variety of upbeat classical dancing tunes (dated to the time of its writing, but still somewhat enjoyable). The cast sings well and the orchestra performance is fine. The production value of the photography is adequate, limited to the general views from the audience rather than fashioned in some cinematic equivalent as if off-stage. Features are a small plus which may interest those seeking to understand the venue or the casting a bit better.

Lyuba Petrova has the most amazing voice! That coupled with supierior acting skills makes her one of the best operatic singers I haven't had the pleasure to see and here. Truely delightful!

A wonderful addition to my library. Well staged, sung and directed.

Best version out there on film. Period.