Jean Philippe Rameau: Zoroastre (2006) [BDRip 720p]

First performed in 1749, the reason this wonderful piece of French baroque opera from Jean-Philippe Rameau, court composer to Louis XV and contemporary of Bach, Scarlatti and Handel, stands up so well today is undoubtedly down to the timeless nature of its subject matter. Rather than being based on Greek gods and legends, Zoroastre rather is set in the fictional land of Bactria and its subject, dealing with the timeless struggle between forces of good and evil, a battle between darkness and light on a vast epic scale, could even lend itself to a science-fiction fantasy interpretation.
This production however is utterly faithful to its period setting and presented with magnificent attention to the smallest detail. Performed in an 18th century theatre in Drottningholm in Sweden, with its highly effective original pulley-operated stage scenery, the production is beautifully costumed, impressively staged and immaculately lit, filmed exceptionally well, with unusual close-ups and angles that draw you in.

Conductor: Christophe Rousset

Personnel
Anders J. Dahlin (Zoroastre);
Evgueniy Alexiev (Abramane);
Sine Bundgaard (Amélite);
Anna Maria Panzarella (Erinice);
Lars Arvidson (Zopire/La Vengeance);
Markus Schwartz (Narbanor);
Gérard Théruel (Oromasès/Ariman);
Ditte Andersen (Céphie);
The Drottningholm Theatre Orchestra & Chorus

Recorded live at the Drottningholm Slottstheater, Sweden on 19, 21 and 23 July 2006.