Turandot was Puccini's last opera before he died, and this 1988 version is one of the best I have seen of the opera. The costume and set design looks exquisite, Turandot's costume especially. And Puccini's music deserves a mention, it is just masterful, from Signor Ascolta, In Questa Reggia, Non Piangereie Liu and of course Nessun Dorma, it is phenomenal musical drama from beginning to end. The direction, musically and stage-wise is also fine. And the performances were exceptional, Eva Marton imperiously chilling as Princess Turandot, and her big voice and brilliant acting ability is put to excellent use. Placido Domingo, who is one of the greatest tenors of the 20th century in my opinion, not only looked the part, but he created a magnificent figure on stage, and with perfect vocal control too. Leona Mitchell is very poignant as Liu, and Paul Plishka makes a noble Timur. Ping, Pang and Pong brought great fun to the proceedings, and the chorus were wonderful(the grind and sharpen chorus is one of the most difficult choruses in opera history, because if it isn't done right, it can be a disaster). I cannot recommend this version highly enough, other than a 10/10. Bethany Cox
