Purcell's Dido and Aeneas : Lovely BBC Film ProductionNetflix Description: With Richard Hickox conducting, Peter Maniura directs this lush adaptation of Henry Purcell's classic opera about the tragic love between the legendary queen of Carthage and the fugitive prince of Troy. Maria Ewing and Karl Daymond turn in a pair of outstanding performances as the star-crossed lovers, leading a stellar cast that also includes Sally Burgess, Jamie McDougall, Francois Testory and Patricia Rozario.I have now experienced "Dido" at least four different ways (in order): A CD A wonderful dance adaption on DVD from the Paul Morris dance ensemble (sadly, this is no longer available on netflix or amazon). The singers were off on the side while the dancers portrayed the characters and action. Very creatively done. A live production by UNIPAC, with some really excellent leads. This film version (which I find interesting that it came out the same year as the dance version I mentioned above). My comments on this version below.Of these, this last experience with "Dido and Aeneas" was probably the most moving for me. I love the music to this opera, but it is true that there is a lot of text repeated throughout the work. That aspect makes it a visual challenge on the stage. What do you do with all that extra time? Film opens up the possibilities here; you aren't tied to a stage space. The film itself is very creatively done. Beautiful art production, costumes, sets and even some really, really cool pyrotechnics/special effects.I may have cast another singer in the role of Dido, but other than that I have zero complaints. This is a great version of the first "English" opera to borrow or buy. more »