REVIEW | Gramophone
by Marina Frolova-Walker
“…This is a nice tribute to Rimsky, who does indeed seem like a musical magician in this unhurried and detailed rendition by the Lyon National Opera orchestra under Daniele Rustioni, which allows the score to reveal its magic in full, backed up by the excellent recording quality.
The Act 2 seduction scene usually outstays its welcome but in this performance it is mesmerising, and completely vindicates the composer. Nina Minasyan is vocally and visually gorgeous but, unusually, it is Tsar Dodon who grabs our attention most. Dmitry Ulyanov is simply the best Dodon I have ever seen and heard, an authoritative presence throughout in spite of his grotesquely undignified costume. His singing is impeccable, sonorous and characterful, helped along with startling facial expressions and some great dance moves.
The rest of the Russian-speaking cast acquit themselves honourably. There may be a glut of recent Cockerel DVDs out there but this is one that cannot be missed.”