Word: spalanzani
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...first of Hoffmann's loves is an alluring Little Bo Peep-esque automaton named Olympia (Jennifer Little), the "daughter" of the wacky Dr. Spalanzani (Joel Pollack). Hoffmann tries to romance her, but as he dances with this red-cheeked robot sexpot, she spins out of control, and the protagonist becomes painfully aware of how unnatural his lust is. Little sang some breathtaking runs, imbuing her vocal acrobatics with a fine coloratura and marvelous control...
...production illustrates the progression perfectly. The first act-all bright colors and gaily spinning contraptions-is an extended divertissement, with Hoffmann the butt of a joke shared by everyone except him. Olympia, the crowning achievement of Spalanzani's workshop, is obviously a machine, and in a fine, broad comic touch, Director Schenk has the inventor's assistant twist each of her fingers to produce the dazzling coloratura of her famous Doll's Song. The mood turns passionate when Hoffmann meets the sensuous Giulietta, and Schneider-Siemssen's Venice creates an atmosphere of dark mystery, with shadowy...
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