Screen capture from the El Niño DVD
One of the first of many reviews of DVDs and recordings of operas.... to enjoy in the comfort of your own cave.
John Adams El Niño is more of a 'scenic oratorio' than an opera (as described by the director and co-librettist Peter Sellers).... telling the story of the nativity it is a collection of texts from the King James Bible, Gnostic gospels, Sor Juana Ines de la Cruz and poetry by 20th century Hispanic writers. That is the beauty of it.... it is that selection of texts set to exquisite music by John Adams that makes this a marvellous work.
And if that was not enough you have the trioof fabulous voices with the talents of Dawn Upshaw, Lorraine Hunt Lieberson and Willard White. It is the juxtaposition of vocal talent, dance and film that make this 'scenic oratorio' a joy to watch. It is a sweet amalgamation.
Opening with the London Voice Choir with 'Mai, mai, maiden' the terseness of the libretto is a welcome relief from turgid, and often times unnecessary words. Having the three counter-tenors act as the messengers from God and the narrators is inspired. That counter-tenor vocal range lends itself well to spiritual music.
The dancers all lend dynamism to the piece both on stage with the singers and also on film. One particular point where the dancer Michael Schumacher as the angel Gabriel delivers his message to Mary is utterly transcendent. It is a perfect marriage of dance and vocal talent.
And if that were not enough we are treated to the most powerful piece of music - Lorraine Hunt Lieberson singing 'Pues Mi Dios Ha Nacido a Penar'.... but then all of LHL pieces are exquisite.
Dawn Upshaw and Lorraine Hunt Lieberson in El Niño - posted by hillevifan
Composer John Adams
Librettist John Adams/Peter Sellers
Cast
Dawn Upshaw Soprano
Lorraine Hunt Lieberson Mezzo-soprano
Willard White Bass
Daniel Bubeck Counter-tenor
Brian Cummings Counter-tenor
Steven Richards Counter-tenor
The London Voices Choir
Daniela Graca Dancer
Nora Kimball Dancer
Michael Schumacher Dancer
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