Rossini: Le Comte Ory

Juan Diego Florez, Diana Damrau, Michele Pertusi
Maurizio Benini, Conductor
Bartlet Sher, Director

2012

“The most astonishing scene comes toward the end of Act II. Adèle has bonded with Isolier, Ory’s page, triumphantly performed by Ms. DiDonato, who sang with plush sound and impeccable passagework; sent top notes soaring; and conveyed all the swagger of a smitten page.” ~ Anthony Tomassini The New York Times March 2011

“Quibbles with the staging aside, this was truly a singer’s production. For bel canto purposes, it doesn’t get much better than having Diana Damrau, Joyce DiDonato and Juan Diego Flórez (pictured) all onstage at the same time. Mezzo-soprano and Rossinian expert Joyce DiDonato was easily the brightest star of the production, shining in the sadly underwritten role of the page Isolier.”  ~ Olivia Giovetti WQXR March 2011

[W]ith a brilliant cast of bel canto specialists in key roles, the production that premiered Thursday night is a rare feast for the ear…Perhaps best of all, American mezzo-soprano Joyce DiDonato sang Isolier with luxuriant tone and dazzling agility — and made one wish the role were bigger.

Mike Silverman, The Associated Press