"This production, by Claus Guth, was premiered in Vienna in 2005 ... Updated to more modern times, the set bearing no physical resemblance to Rome and the modern dress was matched by the presence of pistols and a rifle when knives are referred to. Big and chunky, the set used the revolving stage to good effect ... Despite its fraught origins, some of the most dramatic singing and interpretation come from the singing of Kurt Streit as Lucio Silla. He is past his best years as a mellifluous Mozartian, but does infuse emotion and drama in what he sings. In this latter respect he is matched by the raven-haired Patricia Petibon for whom he has a passionate love. She acts with conviction though not always matched by her opera seria coloratura singing ... This performance has many virtues. The slow evolution of the story and its stylised music will disappoint those more enthusiastic about the composer's da Ponte operas or Magic Flute"