La Cenerentola

Sung in Italian with English narration between arias.

Pathos and comedy, coloratura fireworks and witty banter are all found in this operatic Cinderella, acknowledged to be one of Gioachino Rossini’s most celebrated vocal masterpieces. 

Entitled La Cenerentola, this acclaimed film on DVD pairs the composer’s down-to-earth retelling of the Cinderella fairy tale, with libretto by Jacopo Feretti , with the theatrical panache and lush, daring vocal interpretations of Italian opera superstar mezzo-soprano Fedora Barbieri. La Cenerentola’s lively score is filled with opulently expressive arias; while Rossini’s fresh character interpretations are portrayed with charming tenderness in this renowned interpretation that both retains and enhances the charm of the legend.

One of the greatest composers of his era, Rossini wrote his first opera at the age of 18, and his last when he was only 37. Creating over 30 operas and numerous other composition during his short career, Rossini’s immortal works also include The Barber of Seville, William Tell, L’Italiana in Algeri, and Semiramide, among numerous others.

Complemented by the Rome Opera Orchestra and Chorus conducted by the celebrated Oliviero de Fabritiis, the renowned Fedora Barbieri “displays real brio” and “rises to the challenge” (Opera Record) by showcasing her phenomenal vocal agility and dominating the performance with her stirring dramatization in the classic role of Cinderella.

This exclusive DVD edition of La Cenerentola presents a sparkling new print of the 1948 feature film. Lavishly costumed and filmed in the Royal Palaces of Turin and Monza as well as the castles of Stupinigi and Tolcinasco, this historic DVD is a timeless record of a Rossini masterpiece performed by one of the foremost operatic talents of the 20th Century.

● La Cenerentola Synopsis

● Fedora Barbieri Biography

● Digital Remastered Audio & Video

● DVD Recommendations

● Digital Dolby Stereo Audio

● Instant Access to the Arias

(95 Min plus addition Bonus Features)