Product Review

The cast of this Barbiere, taken from performances in July 2009
at the London s Royal Opera House, could quite simply not be
bettered today: dazzling Virgin Classics artist Joyce DiDonato
in her signature role of Rosina; Juan Diego Flórez; the world s
reigning bel canto tenor; Alessandro Corbelli, a buffo
baritone who brings subtlety and edge to the traditional comic
antics, and Ferruccio Furlanetto, who demonstrates that a
supreme interpreter of Verdi s tortured King Phillip can also
have a sense of humor. Conducting is the Royal Opera s Music
Director, Antonio Pappano, who has led many complete operas
for EMI Classics and who though born in London literally
has the Italian style in his blood.

This DVD sees Joyce DiDonato perform her role in a wheelchair
a story that has occupied international headlines. Joyce
brought literal meaning to the old theatrical motto Break a
leg. After she broke her fibula in an earlier show Joyce was
determined to finish her commitment. The good-spirited diva
was re-staged into the production to allow for the additional
challenges that come when a leading lady in a lively physical
role must wheel around the other performers.

Joyce posted the following on her blog post-performance: Well,
without a doubt, last night was one of the most memorable, exciting
nights in my life. I suppose that makes two in a row for me. I arrived
at the theater around 4:30 and was introduced to my new co-star: a
beautiful, sleek Moonlite Breezy Wheelchair.

The DVD bonus features include an interview with Joyce on her
stage accident and subsequent wheelchair performances.