Glynn Ross directed the October 1981
Turandot himself, starring Valkyrie and future Brünnhilde Linda Kelm (as the alternate Turandot). No effort was spared in creating a scenario worthy of an MGM Bible movie. The stage was filled with imperial guards, executioners’ assistants, children, priests, mandarins, dignitaries, wise men, attendants, soldiers, standard bearers, Shades of the Departed, and extras wearing tall headdresses. The finale was climaxed by descending paper streamers, colorful baubles, and showers of glitter.

William Harness (Calaf) and Galina Savova (Turandot) in Puccini’s Turandot, 1981 © Chris Bennion

Puccini’s Turandot, 1981 © Chris Bennion

Puccini’s Turandot, 1981 © Chris Bennion

Guillermina Higareda (Liù) in Puccini’s Turandot, 1981 © Chris Bennion

William Wildermann (Timur) in Puccini’s Turandot, 1981 © Chris Bennion

William Harness (Calaf) in Puccini’s Turandot, 1981 © Chris Bennion

Puccini’s Turandot, 1981 © Chris Bennion

Galina Savova (Turandot) in Puccini’s Turandot, 1981 © Chris Bennion

Steven Tachell (Ping), Leonard Eagleson (Pang), Jon Gruett (Pong) in Puccini’s Turandot, 1981 © Chris Bennion

Puccini’s Turandot, 1981 © Chris Bennion

Richard Vale (Emperor Altoum) in Puccini’s Turandot, 1981 © Chris Bennion

William Harness (Calaf) and Guillermina Higareda (Liù) in Puccini’s Turandot, 1981 © Chris Bennion

William Harness (Calaf) in Puccini’s Turandot, 1981 © Chris Bennion

William Harness (Calaf) and Galina Savova (Turandot) in Puccini’s Turandot, 1981 © Chris Bennion

Puccini’s Turandot, 1981 © Chris Bennion

Steven Tachell (Ping), Leonard Eagleson (Pang), Jon Gruett (Pong) in Puccini’s Turandot, 1981 © Chris Bennion

David McLean, longtime super at Seattle Opera, was the Prince of Persia in in Puccini’s Turandot, 1981
© David McLean