Composer: George Gershwin
Works: Porgy and Bess
Performers: Willard White (Porgy), Cynthia Haymon (Bess), Gregg Baker (Crown), Damon Evans (Sportin’ Life), Cynthia Clarey (Serena), Marietta Simpson (Maria), Paula Ingram (Clara, sung by Harolyn Blackwell), Gordon Hawkins (Jake, sung by Bruce Hubbard)
Recording: Recorded at Shepperton Studios in 1992
Label: EMI
George Gershwin’s “Porgy and Bess” stands as a landmark in the American operatic canon, intertwining jazz idioms with classical forms to create a rich tapestry that tells a poignant story of love, struggle, and resilience in the African American community. Its premiere in 1935 was met with a mix of acclaim and controversy, marking it as a work that not only sought to depict the lives of its characters with authenticity but also challenged the boundaries of what opera could represent. This DVD recording, featuring Simon Rattle conducting the London Philharmonic Orchestra, revives the Glyndebourne production directed by Trevor Nunn, presenting a compelling interpretation of this complex work.
Willard White’s portrayal of Porgy is both commanding and sensitive, embodying the character’s noble vulnerability with a voice that remains rich and resonant throughout. His interpretation shines particularly in the emotionally charged “Bess, You Is My Woman Now,” where the chemistry with Cynthia Haymon’s Bess adds a layer of intimacy that enhances the narrative’s depth. Haymon’s performance captures Bess’s conflicted nature, moving fluidly between despair and determination, particularly evident in her rendition of “Summertime,” which encapsulates the bittersweet essence of her character. The duet between White and Haymon is a highlight, showcasing their vocal prowess in tandem with the emotional stakes of the story.
Damon Evans as Sportin’ Life delivers a performance that is irresistibly flamboyant, injecting an infectious energy into numbers such as “It Ain’t Necessarily So.” His interpretive choices, while exuberant, sometimes risk overshadowing the subtlety of the surrounding performances. The sound engineering, however, does not always do justice to his vocal brilliance, particularly during these climactic moments, which can feel somewhat muddied, detracting from the clarity that is crucial in conveying Gershwin’s intricate rhythms and lively melodies.
The orchestral contributions under Rattle’s baton are commendable, though the transition from stage to film presents both advantages and limitations. The decision to include a visually dramatic storm sequence at the beginning offers a cinematic spectacle that heightens the emotional stakes. However, the absence of natural breaks, typical in a live theatre setting, leads to omissions, such as the exclusion of the Buzzard Song in Act II, Scene I. This decision, while maintaining dramatic flow, sacrifices some of Gershwin’s thematic richness, leaving a sense of incompleteness for those familiar with the original score.
Visually, the production excels with its thoughtful set designs, costumes, and art direction that vividly conjure the world of Catfish Row. The lighting effectively underscores the emotional tone of the opera, enhancing the intimate moments while also capturing the broader social context that underpins the narrative. For newcomers to Gershwin’s opera, this DVD provides a captivating introduction to its vibrant melodies, including beloved numbers like “I Got Plenty o’ Nuttin'” and “Oh Lawd, I’m on My Way,” which resonate with an enduring freshness.
This DVD presentation of “Porgy and Bess” balances visual storytelling with formidable vocal performances, though it is not without its shortcomings. While it successfully captures the essence of Gershwin’s masterpiece, the sacrifices made for the sake of cinematic continuity may leave purists yearning for a more complete representation of the opera’s intricate score. Nonetheless, this production stands as a vital contribution to the repertoire and serves as both an introduction for the uninitiated and a worthwhile exploration for Gershwin enthusiasts.
