Il Farnace

Il Farnace is an opera performance, not a movie, which was released on DVD in 2011. The opera is composed by Antonio Vivaldi and it stars renowned opera artists Mary Ellen Nesi and Delphine Galou.

Il Farnace is a captivating Venetian opera, one of Antonio Vivaldi's finest works, which had been forgotten for centuries until it was rediscovered and revived in the modern era. The gripping story, coupled with Vivaldi’s sublime music that pushes the boundaries of the Venetian opera tradition, inspired a flawless stage production that has been highly celebrated by critics globally. The show's heightened sense of drama and smooth transition between arias and blustering ensembles grant this opera its unique reputation.

Mary Ellen Nesi, well known for her wide range of roles across baroque repertoire, steps into the role of the historic King Farnace. The tale revolves around Farnace, who finds himself cornered, harried to his own city by the Roman soldiers with the tragic news of his wife's untimely death. The plot unfolds as Farnace finds himself plunged into the depths of despair but vows to carry on in maintaining the dignity of his kingdom against all odds.

Spectacularly, Delphine Galou does an equally impressive job in the role of Farnace’s wife, Tamiri. Galou effortlessly portrays Tamiri's enduring love or her husband and their son. Ironically, while Farnace is unaware of Tamiri's escape from death and believes her to be martyred, Tamiri is desperately seeking ways to reunite with her husband and continue to support him in the significant challenges he is facing against the Romans.

King Farnace's staunch determination to face his enemies head-on despite his personal grief echoed through Nesi's soulful performance, as a performer. This is complemented by Galou's touching effort to depict Tamiri as a powerhouse of strength, resilience and love for her family, exhibiting the transcendent heights opera can attain. Both Nesi and Galou have a tremendous on-stage chemistry, and they both lend a touch of human sincerity and emotion while performing their assigned roles.

Moreover, in spite of the drama's tragic overtones, there's also a parallel storyline of Queen Berenice falling for the charms of Prince Gilade, stirring up a dramatic romance that blends seamlessly into the intense backdrop. These plots intertwine, delivering a powerfully sensual and emotive opera.

Il Farnace is expertly conducted by Ottavio Dantone, and the Accademia Bizantina delivers the exquisite nuances of Vivaldi's sublime work beautifully. The enraptured audience is transported into the middle of the struggle, gripped by the emotional intensity that reverberates throughout the music and performance. The stage direction by Ignacio Garcia brings out the very essence of Vivaldi's creation, with meticulously designed sets and lighting that add a touch of finesse to the enthralling visuals.

From a musical perspective, Antonio Vivaldi's composition's magnificence shines through even in the most delicate of moments. His ability to blend dramatic episodes with more intimate, melancholic moments gives this opera a truly rare complexity. From furious revenge arias to soft, plaintive laments, the score is rich and varied, effectively using music to heighten emotional tension and express individual character arcs.

Overall, Il Farnace is as tragic as it is romantic, filled with the zealous performance of every actor, especially Mary Ellen Nesi and Delphine Galou. The duo's emotionally charged performances are backed by beautifully tailored costumes that subtly signify each character's individual personality and role. The incorporation of historical theme enriches the depth and grandeur of the opera, making it a compelling watch on both the dramatic and visual fronts. For lovers of opera and classical music, it is truly an extraordinary experience.