Step into the enchanting world of opera with René Doria's "Une soirée à l'Opéra-Comique," a captivating collection of arias that showcases the artist's remarkable vocal prowess. Released in 1962 under the BNF Collection label, this album is a treasure trove of operatic gems, spanning a duration of 47 minutes. Doria's performance is a testament to her artistry, as she navigates through a diverse range of roles and compositions with grace and power.
The album opens with "La bohème," featuring the hauntingly beautiful "Que cette main est froide," followed by the impassioned "Depuis le jour où je me suis donnée" from "Louise." Doria's voice shines in the romantic "Je crois entendre encore" from "Les pêcheurs de perles," and she brings a sense of longing and melancholy to "Connais-tu le pays où fleurit l'oranger ?" from "Mignon."
Her versatility is evident in the dramatic "Mon cœur est plein d'un noir souci ! - Anges du paradis" from "Mireille," and she delivers a masterful performance in the infamous "Air de la calomnie" from "Le barbier de Séville." The album also includes the patriotic "C'en est donc fait - Salut à la France !" from "La fille du régiment," and Doria's technical skill is on full display in the challenging "Thème et variations sur 'Deh torna mio bene, mio tenere amor', Op. 164."
The album concludes with the tender "Viens, gentille dame (Cavatine)" from "La dame blanche," leaving the audience with a sense of awe and admiration for Doria's extraordinary talent. "Une soirée à l'Opéra-Comique" is a must-listen for opera enthusiasts and newcomers alike, offering a glimpse into the golden age of opera and the enduring legacy of René Doria.
