Mariella Devia, tout simplement.

During four performances she gave passionate and amazing renditions in Marseille Opera House. I missed one out of four.
Tonight I will not try to say anything because my words would be inappropriate as only her art of singing can tell what she is.
I am utterly moved by what she gave us.
I am very angry that what we call 'culture' in this country, whoever is in charge of the classical music here, was not aware that in such a provincial city as ours- second after Paris... a true wonderful belcantist singer was performing in a rather non popular opera. In Paris, France Musique broadcasts lots of concerts from Parisian concert halls and theaters. Here, it is what we call 'the cultural desert land'... or may be Mrs Devia is not mediatic enough for having a session broadcasted ?
But for the lyric lovers of Bel canto, she is the last perfect one.
G. Donizetti is a fine composer and it was a real treat to follow the whole cast, the chorus and orchestra (even if it was too loud at times) through those performances. And if there are 'pirat' versions, no one can complain...
Last night, the four main characters were all cheered, because they all gave the best they could give in this last concert of Roberto Devereux, and I felt they were all acting better and better, as it is really a psychological drama, more than a drama in progress with lots of actions going on. (Apart from 'la spada la spada', which could be acted with violence !)
The elegance of Mrs Devia is not only in her singing, each night she had a new very suitable dress.
Light lavender blue was the colour of her last dress... a dream come true, like the way she sings, and smiles... so gently. Under thundering applause, she bent her head, almost hiding. What a wonderful artist!


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