Based on a short novel by Dostoyevsky, Prokofiev’s The Gambler unfolds in the fictional casino town of Roulettenburg, where a variety of characters converge and clash. These characters include a General indebted to a covetous Marquis, the General’s resentful stepdaughter Polina, and Alexey, who harbours feelings for her. Director Peter Sellars, known for his insightful interpretations of overlooked masterpieces, challenges us to mirror the bravery of Dostoyevsky and Prokofiev – the courage to confront our inner darkness. The musical direction of Russian conductor Timur Zangiev shines together with the vocal performances of the exceptional cast.

“Asmik Grigorian portraying a passionate Polina, and Sean Panikkar delivering a powerful performance as Alexei” – Financial Times

“Peter Sellars...has done what this exceptional director always tries to do: present an old, distant story as an analysis of the here and now” – Süddeutsche Zeitung

“A triumph of vision and passion” – European News Agency

“Grand sound cinema” – Bachtrack

Cast:
- Alexey Ivanovich: Sean Panikkar
- Polina: Asmik Grigorian
- Antonida Vailevna Tarasevicheva: Violeta Urmana
- The General: Peixin Chen
- The Marquis: Juan Francisco Gatell
- Mr Astley: Michael Arivony
- Blanche: Nicole Chirka
- Potapych: Joseph Parrish
- Prince Nilsky: Zhengyi Bai
- Baron Wurmerhelm: Ilia Kazakov

Recording date: Salzburg Festival, Felsenreitschule, August 2024
Suond format: PCM Stereo, DTS-HD MA 51
Picture: 1080i, 16:9
Booklet: English, German, French
Subtitles: Russian (original language), English, German, French, Korean, Japanese
Total running time: 132 mins