Don Giovanni in Milan

Having already discussed the upcoming Rigoletto at the Teatro alla Scala last month here, it is time to move on. The theatre will next be reviving their production of Don Giovanni beginning the evening of January 30th for a run of seven performances. Mr. Erwin Schrott pictured above will portray the title role opening night which is double cast with Mr. Peter Mattei. This comes as no surprise as Mr. Schrott has sung this role just about everywhere, mostly with his shirt off. To be fair, it seems to be the manner in which many houses are presenting the more muscular baritones these days. Perhaps the individuals who occupy this vocal range feel they have to do something more since they invariably are not leading men. And if you can’t be the leading man, you might as well overshadow them with hirsute virility. Tenors had better wise up. COMMANDOpera respects any artist who takes the time to correctly look after themselves physically. An artist who wishes for longevity will find more  from a well toned body, than one which is continually abused with weight issues. The excellent artist Mr. Schrott, will be accompanied by the French conductor Mr. Louis Langrée. Commander is double cast with Mr. Georg Zeppenfeld and Mr. Roman Polisadov. Donna Anna is Miss Carmel Remigio, Don Ottavio is Mr. Juan Arbre, Donna Elvira is Miss Emma Bell whom COMMANDOpera is watching with interest. Personally this is not an opera COMMANDOpera would rush out to see, but if your in Milan with not a thing to do on these nights and have a few hundred Euro’s to throw away, here is your ticket. There are far more interesting performances being given just about everywhere else in Europe.

Mr. Schrott speaks about opera and Don Giovanni to the Los Angeles television audience.