Watch Mozart, Don Giovanni - Glyndebourne Festival 2010

Mozart's opera Don Giovanni is one of the most famous and beloved works of classical music, and the Glyndebourne Festival's 2010 production of the piece is a stunning example of why. Starring William Burden as Don Giovanni and Anna Samuil as Donna Anna, this production is a feast for the senses, with gorgeous singing, lush costumes, and stunning set design.

The story of Don Giovanni follows the titular character, a wealthy and unrepentant womanizer who uses his power and charm to seduce countless women. But his luck eventually runs out when he crosses Donna Anna, whose father he has killed in a fit of rage. As Don Giovanni continues on his reckless path, he finds himself facing the consequences of his actions.

Burden is a charismatic and commanding presence as Don Giovanni, perfectly embodying the character's arrogance and charm. He sings with a rich, powerful voice that captures the character's complexity and depth. His performance is particularly impressive in the scene where he is confronted by the ghost of the man he killed, delivering a gripping and emotional portrayal of a man facing his own mortality.

Samuil is equally impressive as Donna Anna, bringing a fierce intensity to the role. Her voice soars with emotion, particularly in the aria "Or sai chi l'onore," which is a highlight of the production. Samuil's performance perfectly captures the character's determination and bravery, as well as her vulnerability and grief.

The rest of the cast is equally strong, with standout performances from Pavol Breslik as Don Ottavio, the man who loves Donna Anna, and Luca Pisaroni as Leporello, Don Giovanni's faithful servant. Breslik's voice is sweet and pure, and he brings a sense of sincere devotion to his character, while Pisaroni is hilarious as the perpetually put-upon servant, delivering a comedic performance that never veers into caricature.

The production design is also top-notch, with stunning sets and costumes that perfectly evoke the era in which the opera is set. The stage is dominated by an imposing, crumbling statue of the Commendatore, the man Don Giovanni kills at the beginning of the opera, which serves as a haunting reminder of the character's past sins. The costumes are lush and sumptuous, with detailed embroidery and sumptuous fabrics that add to the sense of luxury and decadence that surrounds Don Giovanni.

One of the highlights of the production is the use of dance, particularly in the famous "Catalogue Aria," in which Leporello lists Don Giovanni's conquests. The dancers who accompany him are stylish and graceful, moving in perfect synchronization with each other and with Pisaroni's comic timing.

Throughout the production, the music itself is the star of the show. The Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, conducted by Vladimir Jurowski, delivers a breathtaking performance of Mozart's score, perfectly capturing the emotion and drama of the story. The famous overture, with its stirring horns and pounding strings, sets the tone for the entire production, and the music carries the audience through every twist and turn of the opera's complex plot.

Overall, the Glyndebourne Festival's 2010 production of Mozart's Don Giovanni is a stunning example of the power of opera. With its gorgeous singing, stunning production design, and powerful music, it transports the audience to another world, where they are swept up in the drama, romance, and tragedy of the story. A must-see for any fan of classical music or opera, this production is sure to leave audiences spellbound.