I have always loved opera(and classical music in general), and while I more appreciate rather than love Stravinsky I have always been fascinated by Le Rossignol. This is a mesmerising version, I loved the mix between the conventional staging and the computer-animated images, the former is always interesting and the latter is used to stunning effects. The costumes and sets are equally wondrous, and the photography only adds to it rather than distract from it. The orchestral playing is taut and also with an ethereal quality when the orchestration calls for it. The conducting is efficient and never lets the production sag in pace. The singing is superb, the obvious standout is the titular role performance of Natalie Dessay, her colouratura and singing in general still continues to dazzle as well as her effortless sounding technique and while it is somewhat toned down in terms of character compared to Marie, Orphelie and Olympia (naturally as they are different roles) she is also charming and fun. Laurent Naouri sings sonorously making a big effort to make his challenging vocal line seem easier than it actually is. Violeta Urmana is a haunting Death and Marie McLaughlin sings and acts her role with a lot of character. In conclusion, a Le Rossignol to watch. 10/10 Bethany Cox
