Word: pamina
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Dates: during 1990-1999
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...translation of Schikaneder's libretto, which, in cutting huge chunks of dialogue, makes the opera's story seen hurried and almost incomprehensible (even if the original, with its sudden plot reversal, is itself somewhat incoherent). The transitions are sudden, and such delicious scenes as the first act duet of Pamina and Papageno are deflated by a lack of preparation. The half-hearted characterization of the singers conspires with the awkwardness of the adapted libretto to empty the opera of power, and not even the sight gags and Papageno's antics can revivify...