Average Rating: (4.7 out of 5 stars)
Gergeiev at his usual top
Glinka's RUSLAN AND LYUDMILLA is very little known and rarely performed in the West. So it's great news that this excellent production is now available. Like all other Kirov/Gergeiev productions this is anther superb performance. The sound and picture quality are excellent
Submitted by speiser (Haifa) 
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a worthwhile purchase
This DVD is stunning to the visual and auditory senses. It is in anamorphic widescreen (in spite of some websites misdesignation of full screen) with DTS sound. Considering it is a live performance, the engineers have done a remarkable job moving in on the important action and backing off when you need a wider view. The costumes and sets are very colorful, realistic, and professionally done for that time frame. Although at first it may be a little difficult to adjust to Ratmir (male knight) being sung by a woman, she is up to the task of making the image believable. I can not find fault with any of the vocalists and truly enjoyed Netrebko (she was perfect!). The only cheesy part in the DVD that I lament is the battle between Ruslan and Chernomor. Instead of simply showing how it would be presented on stage, a small movie clip is inserted for a few moments showing a ludicrous attempt at what looks like a short child's battle between Ruslan and the evil sorcerer. I don't quite understand the reason they would do this to this fine opera and I would have given it a 5 star rating otherwise. This one little part really nags at me-I wished they hadn't done it this way. I am surprised that Gergiev would have even allowed it- it must have been done behind his back.
Nonetheless, I have the Philips recording of this opera from a couple of years ago, and noticed that they have more on the DVD than is on the CD. The ballet score at Naina's castle is much more elaborate and is quite an enjoyable respite from the story line.
If you like Ruslan and Ludmila, you will not be unhappy with your purchase. It's the only choice out there, but it is a good one.
Submitted by gordon (palm harbor, florida)
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Remarkable Production of this Russian Masterpiece
Glinka's Ruslan and Lyudmila is the root of all Russian opera. This is a wonderful production of this fabulous and fantastic opera. I cannot imagine a better production of this important but rarely performed opera. Highly recommended!
Submitted by jshaver (Virginia)
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