Maria Stuarda is not my first choice in regard to Donizetti's operas but it is still one of his better operas with lovely music. This is a fine production. The attention to detail in the costumes and sets is appropriately sumptuous, and it is adeptly captured on video. The music is stylishly played, with a well-blended chorus and elegantly phrased conducting. Purists may object to the production being in English, but I don't think this decision hurt the music at all so I didn't see it as a problem. The staging doesn't take liberties and it doesn't come across as dull and static either. The performances are terrific. Rosalind Plowright does have some occasional shrillness in the high register and is too beautiful for Elizabeth, but she does have generally a full and intelligently used voice and has a dignified stage presence. Janet Baker's Maria Stuarda(Mary Stuart, or Mary Queen of Scots as we are more familiar with) is a revelation, her flexible technique, striking musicality and firm beautiful voice as well as her commanding presence makes for a very moving performance. She and Plowright are thrilling together. David Rendall is an appealing and assuredly sung Earl of Leicester, and Alan Opie's sonorous singing is put to good use. All all, a great and sumptuous production, any Baker or Donizetti fan will love it. 9/10 Bethany Cox
