Licia Albanese Movies
Including such songs as "Broadway Baby," "I'm Still Here," "The Ladies Who Lunch," and "Losing My Mind," this video features a filming of the well-known Stephen Sondheim musical as it was performed at New York's Lincoln Center in 1985. ~ Iotis Erlewine, Rovi
A documentary that covers the life and works of Arturo Toscanini. Includes some rare color home movies of Toscanini at work and play. ~ Rovi
- 1956
Loosely based on a novel by James M. Cain, this romantic drama centers on the struggles of a humble vineyard worker (real-life opera star Mario Lanza) who rises to become a renowned opera star. In the original book, Damon, the protagonist, has a homosexual relationship with the patron who boosts his career, but in the film, the patron is a wealthy and manipulative young woman named Kendall (Joan Fontaine). As charming as she is selfish, poor Damon cannot help but fall in love with Kendall. Unfortunately, she is a fickle creature and soon grows bored with him, thereby breaking his heart and causing him to choke during his audition for the Met. Afterward, he flees to Mexico. There he comes down with a mysterious, debilitating movie disease. Fortunately, Juana, a beautiful ex-bullfighter's daughter is there to help him recover. Damon falls in love with her, but just as it looks like happiness will finally be his, conniving Kendall reappears. In addition to singing numerous selections from popular operas, Lanza also sings a pair of Sammy Cahn/Nicholas Brodszky pop tunes: "Serenade" and "My Destiny." ~ Sandra Brennan, Rovi
- Starring:
- Mario Lanza, Joan Fontaine, (more)
- 1951
This video is part of a series that presents some of the great names of 20th century opera. The live performances were broadcast on television as part of The Voice of Firestone series of the late '40s and early '50s. In this edition, the featured singer is soprano Licia Albanese, best known for her signature portrayal of Cio-Cio-San in Puccini's Madame Butterfly. The delicate nuances of the character perfectly suited the diminutive diva with the grand voice. She sings excerpts from this role and others in this television performance. ~ Rose of Sharon Winter, Rovi
- 1951
Following its radio debut in 1928, The Voice of Firestone aired on television between 1949 and 1963. Some of the world's most promising newcomers and established stars sang classical songs and current hits while Howard Barlow and his 46-piece orchestra accompanied them. Many of these telecasts are now available as part of this In Opera and Song series. This volume features soprano Licia Albanese, who once thrilled audiences with her New York City Opera performances. During this program, she sings various popular tunes and selections from I Pagliacci. ~ Elizabeth Smith, Rovi
