Sullivan: The Beauty Stone

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Arthur Sullivan's "The Beauty Stone," a captivating opera that blends romance, mystery, and medieval intrigue. This two-disc set, released on November 1, 2013, by Chandos, presents Sullivan's lesser-known masterpiece in its entirety, sans spoken dialogue, allowing the music to take center stage.

"The Beauty Stone" is a romantic musical drama in three acts, composed by the renowned Arthur Sullivan, with a libretto by Arthur Wing Pinero and J. Comyns Carr. The opera tells the tale of Laine, a crippled girl of tender heart and humble appearance, who yearns to be beautiful and capture the heart of a handsome prince. The story unfolds with a rich tapestry of characters, including the cunning Devil, the noble Philip, and the enigmatic Guntran, all set against the backdrop of the medieval town of Mirlemont.

Recorded in 2013 at the Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff Bay, this production features a stellar cast of vocalists, including Toby Spence as Philip, David Stout as Guntran, and Elin Manahan Thomas as Laine. The BBC National Orchestra of Wales, conducted by Rory Macdonald, provides a lush and evocative musical backdrop, bringing Sullivan's score to life with vivid detail and depth.

With a running time of approximately two hours and nine minutes, "The Beauty Stone" is a substantial and engaging work that showcases Sullivan's compositional prowess and his ability to craft memorable melodies and dramatic scenes. From the hauntingly beautiful arias to the grand choral numbers, this opera is a testament to Sullivan's enduring legacy as one of the most important composers of the Victorian era.

Whether you are a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "The Beauty Stone" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The album includes a detailed tracklist, allowing you to follow the narrative as it unfolds across three acts and numerous scenes. The high-quality recording and expert performances ensure that every nuance of Sullivan's score is captured, making this a definitive recording of "The Beauty Stone."