Mary Stuart

About This Movie

So, this is an English National Opera recording of Donizetti's 'Maria Stuarda,' which is a pretty fascinating piece for anyone into opera on film. The atmosphere in this 1982 recording at the London Coliseum is electric, thanks to the chorus and orchestra conducted by Charles Mackerras. There’s a rawness to the performances that brings the drama of Mary Stuart to life in a compelling way. Singing in English adds a unique twist, making it more accessible but also changing the nuances a bit. You can really feel the weight of the themes—power, betrayal, and tragedy, all heightened by the music. It doesn’t just play out like a standard opera; there’s a vividness here that’s quite distinctive for the genre.

This recording has been relatively hard to find in good condition, making it a nice piece for collectors. Its distinctiveness lies in both its historical context and the unique English rendition of the opera. While it may not be the most widely circulated, those who appreciate the combination of operatic performances with stagecraft from the early '80s will find it a gem worth seeking out.