Joyce DiDonato is "regal" and "riveting" in role debut as Semiramide

“On February 12, at the first evening of its new Semiramide production in the Nationaltheater, Bavarian State Opera proved itself more than equal to the challenge of finding an ideal cast for a work that depends on the virtuosity of its singers for its success. Joyce DiDonato’s enormous talent is unparalleled in today’s opera world; she has the allure of a true diva without the baggage associated with that word. Her regal bearing spoke volumes, her emotional involvement in the title role was riveting and her brilliant coloratura took one’s breath away. DiDonato’s “Bel raggio lusinghier” brought down the house in Act I, and she amazed and stupefied her audience throughout the entire evening.”

Jeffrey A. Leipsic – Opera News

“Her interpretation was extremely dramatic and intense. Hers is a troubled, broken queen, whose old crime (her husband’s murder) has marked her whole existence. She hopes against all odds to find happiness by marrying the young warrior Arsace, only to be hurled into the middle of a Freudian nightmare (Arsace turns out to be her son). Her vocal performance was brilliant, marked by a wonderful legato and sparkling coloratura – every asset of a true bel canto artist.”

Bachtrack