Production
In what many believe to be the finest production of Otello in modern times, Plácido Domingo and Kiri Te Kanawa lead a world-class cast under the exquisite musical direction of Sir Georg Solti. An outstanding performance of the first of Verdi's two late Shakespearian operas, universally regarded as sublime masterpieces of grand opera.
Recording of the actor in conversation with Joan Bakewell at the National Film Theatre, London.
Magic Lantern: Michael Frayn's Prague
The three protagonists listen to a storyteller recount the creation as well as the Fall. At the same time, they learn their own lessons in honesty after tricking a gardener into giving them fruit for free.
Dutch composer Louis Andriessen collaborates with director Peter Greenaway on a commissioned short film to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the death of Mozart. Gods create Man, Music and Mozart.
Composer Judith Weir collaborates with director Margaret Williams on a commissioned short film to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the death of Mozart.
Composer H.K. Gruber collaborates with director Barrie Gavin on a commissioned short film to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the death of Mozart. Gods create Man, Music and Mozart.
In the early 1900s, the fictional Catfish Row section of Charleston, South Carolina serves as home to a black fishing community. Crippled beggar Porgy, who travels about in a goat-drawn cart, loves the drug-addicted Bess, who lives with stevedore Crown, the local bully.
A huge influence on world music, Nigerian artist Fela Kuti played many instruments, pioneered afrobeat music and served as a prominent activist for human rights in Africa. This 1984 documentary examines the life and music of the remarkable man. Using his music to raise awareness, Kuti embraced social justice themes. He died in 1997 of complications from AIDS. Footage from his legendary show in Glastonbury, England, is included.
The story of Kurt Weill 's relationship with the American popular theatre. During his years in exile on Broadway, the composer of Mack the Knife and The Alabama Song, who personified decadent Berlin, found a new life in New York, creating such standards as September Song and Speak Low. Director Barrie Gavin describes the film as "the history of an artist ... struggling to write music which could have real meaning for the society he had just joined." Weill is remembered by the conductor Maurice Abravanel and the actor Burgess Meredith and there are extracts from several of his works.
A documentary about the life and work of the composer Hans Werner Henze followed by a performance of Requiem
Judith arrives at Bluebeard's dark castle hoping her love can convince him to reveal the secrets behind the locked interior doors.
Composer Misha Mengelberg collaborates with director Anthony Garner on a commissioned short film to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the death of Mozart.
Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti performs at the 1984 Glastonbury Festival. Originally produced for Arena.
BBC TV documentary
