Classic Comedies (Blu-ray), BBC / Opus Arte, Music & Performance

From fake potions and feigned emotions to the follies of youth and the vulnerability of age, this set brings together two of Donizetti's greatest comedies, L'elisir d'amore and Don Pasquale, charming works packed with musical wit in which the composer looks beyond the archetypes of the Buffa tradition to create complex, highly individual characters. Both operas are brought to life in sparkling Glyndebourne productions, with first-class singing from such noted artists as Alessandro Corbelli, Danielle di Niese and Ekaterina Siurina, and expert bel canto conducting from the pit.