Beverly Sills Movies

Famed tenor Placido Domingo headlines this December 2006 stage production of Tan Dun's unique opera The First Emperor, mounted by Raise the Red Lantern director Zhang Yimou. Dun composed the score and conducts; he also co-authored the libretto with Ha Jin, adapting both historical records by Sima Qian and the screenplay The Legend of the Bloody Zheng by Lu Wei. This filmed outing bears an unusual footnote, as one in a series of early 21st century filmed operas released to mainstream theaters by New York's Metropolitan Opera in High Definition (HD) format. It contains not merely the said opera, but interviews with the various participants conducted by the late Beverly Sills, and extensive behind-the-scenes footage. ~ Nathan Southern, Rovi

This music biography chronicles the life of Russian-born violinist Isaac Stern. The prodigious musician has shown himself to be a true citizen of the world during his long musical career. He has performed with every major orchestra in the world, and also appeared on Sesame Street. He recorded the soundtrack for Fiddler on the Roof, and won an Oscar for his documentary From Mao to Mozart: Isaac Stern in China. After turning 80 in the year 2000, Stern continues to perform and mentor younger musicians. Archival clips show Stern in performances around the globe. Interviews with family, friends, and musical colleagues recall the humanity and genius of the musician. ~ Rose of Sharon Winter, Rovi

The majestic songs of John Philip Sousa were performed in concert at the Barns of Wolf Trap as conducted by Keith Brion. ~ Rovi

Examine the methods used in Joffrey's Ballet for Deaf Children ~ Rovi

Sarah Caldwell's production of The Barber of Seville, with Beverly Sills, was performed at the New York City Opera. ~ Rovi

This musical performance features Donizetti's comic opera about an orphan adopted by a regiment in Napoleon's army. This is the premiere broadcast of the PBS series, "Live from Wolf Trap." ~ Rovi