Marking the centenary anniversary of Leonard Bernstein's birth, Marin Alsop leads the London Symphony Orchestra and Chorus in a live, semi-staged performance of Bernstein's Candide, based on the Alsop-led, critically acclaimed New York Philharmonic performance from 2004. This production is the composer's final edition of the operetta with the book by Hugh Wheeler, rather than the original from Lillian Hellman, who inspired Bernstein to take on the satirical novella by Voltaire. The pair were drawn to the novella by the similarities they both saw between the actions at the time of Senator Joseph McCarthy and the House Un-American Activities Committee and the Inquisition of Voltaire's time. The London Symphony is in fine form and delivers a nearly show-stealing performance, getting the action moving right off the jump with the rousing overture. Tenor Leonardo Capalbo in the title role and soprano Jane Archibald as Cunegonde lead an operatic cast that places the music at the fore. Also featured are the venerable Anne Sofie von Otter as the Old Lady and Sir Thomas Allen as the narrator and Dr. Pangloss. Archibald's "Glitter and be Gay" is attractive and certainly more in the comic-opera tradition than Kristen Chenoweth's turn with Alsop in the 2004 production. The finale "Make Our Garden Grow" is Bernstein at his best: lovers reunited, grand orchestral progressions, and tutti voices singing out in jubilation. Some may find the wit missing in this presentation, but it is there, if not slightly subdued. The narration throughout delivers a good amount of humor but, more importantly, sets the scene in the listener's mind. All of the music is well performed, with outstanding work from the London Symphony Chorus backing the cast. A wonderful tribute in honor of the late composer by one of his mentees and admirers.
© TiVo