Das Rheingold 6-28-11 San Francisco Opera

It wasn't the best 'Rheingold' I've seen, but it held my interest, thanks to Wagner's genius. The conducting by Donald Runnicles was seamless as always. Mark Delavan as Wotan was a bit lacking, both in voice and presence, he didn't convey the essence of the 'All-Father'.  We'll see how he does when he becomes 'The Wanderer'. Stefan Margita as the wily and perceptive Loge stole the show and he received the loudest applause at show's end, aptly enough. The 1850's 'Gold Rush' reinvention of the Ring didn't annoy me as much as I thought it would, but it still made for two painfully drab sets on Acts 2 and 4, including when the gods ascend the rainbow bridge. It felt more like they were getting onto a cruise ship in the 1920's.  However, the River Rhine in Act 1 was mysterious and beautiful and the underground mining pits of the Niebelungs in Act 3 was fiery and fascinating. The transitions between acts were also handled gorgeously, you felt like you were traveling along to the next locale, whether it be descending or ascending. Overall, I'd give this Rheingold 3.5 Tarnhelms out of a possible 5.  (I know there's only one Tarnhelm, give me a break...)