Netrebko Elevates Turandot to Operatic Greatness

The Royal Opera House is staging a remarkable 22 performances of Puccini's "Turandot" within less than a year, highlighting the opera's enduring appeal. Andrei Serban's 1984 production, now confidently revived by Jack Furness, features striking orientalist choreography and oppressive, shadowy sets, creating a visually captivating experience.

Headlining the recent performances is Russian soprano Anna Netrebko, whose rendition of the titular princess is described as reaching a new level of operatic greatness. Her vocal richness and grand phrasing, evident from her second-act entrance, set a standard that even overshadowed the principals, though Yusif Eyvazov as Calaf and Masabane Cecilia Rangwanasha as Liu delivered strong performances.

Despite minor critiques on vibrato and textual attention, Netrebko's "Turandot" is celebrated for its depth, offering softness and an extended vocal line beyond mere power. The revival also featured a lively Ping, Pang, and Pong, a dignified Timur, and a veteran Emperor, all conducted by Daniel Oren, though his direction was noted as unilluminating.