Cyndia Sieden

The special aspect of the opera Alceste is its designation as the "first opera in the German language." The ancient drama about Alceste was written in the form of a play for theater by the Enlightenment playwright Christoph Marlin Wieland and set to music by the acclaimed late-18th-century composer Anton Schweitzer. This performance of the newly edited opera based on the historic play was begging to be captured on DVD. The demanding singing parts are delivered in brilliant manner by the four soloists, ably accompanied by Concerto Koln, one of the most renowned early music ensembles.

Written by Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award winner Terrence McNally, Andre's Mother is the story of Katherine Gerard (Sada Thompson) who has lost her son to AIDS. Set at Andre's memorial service, the film follows Katherine's journey as she confronts the death of her son, the anguish of his lover Cal Porter (Richard Thomas), and, in flashbacks, the key moments of denial and miscommunication with those closest to her. Originally broadcast as part of "American Playhouse" on PBS (season nine, episode four).