Like Debussy's Pelléas et Mélisande, Dukas' opera features a mysterious yet evocative libretto by the Belgian symbolist writer Maurice Maeterlinck. With limited action, the opera centers on the psychological relationship between the characters, particularly between Blubeard and his new wife, who is determined to uncover and understand his past. Accordingly, the heroine's role requires great stamina, as Ariane remains on stage singing for almost the entire opera. As Bluebeard's past wives emerge, the opera explores issues such as individual freedom, women's rights and the power of memory. John Ashbery writes in Telarc's album notes: "Luscious but pure as the cascade of diamonds that all but drowns the heroine, Dukas' score brings his strange parable magnificently into focus, weaving a seamless fabric of music, pantomime and poetry."

R E V I E W S:

“…Three cheers then for this wonderful new recording…Greatest plaudits should go to Lori Phillips who is thoroughly convincing in the exceptionally demanding role of Ariane. When she sings that ‘first, one must disobey’, it is clear that it would take someone far stronger in purpose than Bluebeard to argue with her. The supporting cast is equally committed and Leon Botstein paces the music masterfully, conveying both the lavish colours and the latent menace of the score…this is a triumph, outclassing Tony Aubin’s 1968 live performance (Gala), and, Katherine Ciesinski aside, boasting a stronger cast than Armin Jordan’s long-deleted studio version with its over-bearing orchestra (Erato). Anyone who remains unmoved by the magical hush when Ariane opens the seventh door should see a heart specialist as a matter of urgency.”

-Christopher Dingle, BBC Music Magazine, September 2007

Leon Botstein conducts the BBC Symphony Orchestra and the BBC Singers in an idiomatic, highly professional performance. In combination with the rarity of the opera and the beauty of the music it all adds up to the best opera recording of the year.

-Jens F. Laurson , MusicWeb International