Anna Bolena will be on the big screen at Creston and District Public Library, starting at 7 p.m. May 25.
Major characters are Enrico (Henry VIII) played by Ildebrando D’Arcangelo, Anna Bolena (Anne Boleyn) played by Anna Netrebko and Giovanna Seymour (Jane Seymour) by Elina Garanca.
This Italian opera by Gaetano Donizetti tells the story of Henry VIII’s attraction to his wife’s maid of honour on his wedding day. Subsequently she becomes his mistress and eventually his queen. But we all know that becoming the wife of Henry VIII was an honor one would be better off without.
The performance of Netrebko was described in the New York Times as a personal triumph, Garanca was lauded for her amazing command of bel canto, and D’Arcangelo’s bass voice said to be rich and suave. Other accolades followed. The Vienna State Orchestra and Choir are ably conducted by Evelino Pido.
Anna Bolena will be the final opera at the Library before a summer recess. Jasmine Lothien will provide an introduction, and the assistance of Aaron Francis and Gail Sutherland is appreciated.
Admission is free and all are welcome to view this excellent Deutsche Gramophon DVD with English subtitles.
—BY JULIE EWASHEN