A couple things about this performance of Wagner’s Das Rheingold. 1-There were 105 pieces in the orchestra including six harps and a mess of anvils. 2-Frank Gehry’s staging of the opera, turning a world-class concert hall into a world-class opera house, was magical BUT it messed with our perfect seats! The stage hid some of the players, mostly the low strings, but at least it didn’t hide Dudamel.
See the white arrow above, that’s Dudamel’s empty seat where he likes to hang out while the orchestra is getting ready, and during the long run of ovations. And there he is in the next two pictures.
I was thinking during this two and a half hour piece performed without an intermission, that I wouldn’t want to stand for two and half hours let along bring the constant passion and urgency that was evident here. I was, however, utterly amazed for two and a half hours which was effort enough for me. If I don’t get to see Dudamel ever again I will be happy in the memory of this performance. What a master, guiding the orchestra and singers with perfection, and playing every part in the opera with his body, all participants tuned into every nuance of his face and hands.
Not my picture. It comes from an article in bachtrack.com. You can click the link for a good review of the music and Frank Gehry’s staging in honor of the 20th anniversary of the Disney Concert Hall. It’s worth it to read the article and look at the pictures!
