Verdi: I Lombardi

   in Opera Now (Feb, 2019)
Of the production of Verdi’s I Lombardi from Turin I will say little, as there is, in fact, very little production to comment on. To call it old-fashioned would be rude to shows of yesteryear that provided any theatrical Standing-room only in Graham Vick’s innovative Stiffelio at the Parma Festival impetus. But the music is very good. Mariotti appears again, enjoying the early Verdian vigour of the piece, and the cast is strong. Francesco Meli has a bright tenor for Oronte, Giuseppe Gipali is a luxurious second tenor Arvino, and Alex Esposito good value for money, as always, as Pagano. Best of all is Angela Meade’s Giselda. She may not be …