On August 4, 2024, the Wiener Staatsoper will showcase Verdi’s “Otello” at the Film Festival on Wiener Rathausplatz.

The performance, recorded in October 2023, will be shown at 9:00 PM and features a production directed by Adrian Noble with Alexander Soddy conducting.

Jonas Kaufmann takes on the title role, supported by Rachel Willis-Sørensen as Desdemona and Ludovic Tézier as Iago.

During the production’s revival in October, critics praised Kaufmann for his portrayal, noting that his deep, resonant voice and intense stage presence were ideal for the role of the troubled, self-destructive war hero. They commented that Kaufmann handled the demanding opening aria, “Esultate!”, with skill and delivered a compelling, if not extraordinary, performance throughout the evening.

As for Tézier, reviewers appreciated his powerful baritone, which effectively conveyed Iago’s jealousy, anger, and feigned sympathy with both ease and authority.