Konstantin Krimmel: a commanding presence
Reviews
The MET Orchestra reigns and Goerke sings Sieglinde
ReviewThe blazing orchestra doesn't so much compensate for the lack of the sword and tree but more accurately supplants the need for such paraphernalia.
A Torrent of Light: the future of opera
ReviewEvery part of the playing space could function as a projection screen. It was some of the most exciting tech I've ever seen in a show.
The Queen in Me: yaassss kweeeeeeen
ReviewThe Queen in Me at the Canadian Opera Company is the culmination of years of work by Kasahara and their creative team to create this monolith of a one-person show. A true one-person show -- not a recital, not a cabaret or salon, but a dramatically driven show that would need to be seen to be believed.
EDEN stuns and the astonishing Joyce DiDonato is out to save the world
ReviewJoyce DiDonato has made a stunning recording. Since we've become accustomed to her perfect technique, rich characterizations and commitment to the message as well as the music, this is not unusual. But with Eden, her new recording on Erato, this masterful mezzo-soprano quite simply astonishes.
Vaness directs electric Tosca in Kansas City
ReviewI could see Ms. Vaness' artistry in every move of the performers. While there was no groundbreaking staging, I felt a special electricity from the cast, like there was a connection to the greats, which of course Ms. Vaness provides.
Review: the COC's "prima la musica" La traviata
ReviewLegato in spades and a magnetic presence on the stage that was at times hypnotizing, her "Sempre libera" (an aria that holds a particularly special place in the hearts of Queers in my generation) brought the house down.
Les Délices streams opera pastiche The White Cat
ReviewJulie Andrijeski and Shelby Yamin (violins), Kathryn Montoya and Nagy (oboes and recorders), Rebecca Reed (viola da gamba) and Mark Edwards (harpsichord) all wear cat masks, a simple and delightfully conspiratorial gesture. These cats know how to work it.
The ensemble from heaven sends Don Giovanni to hell
ReviewThe standout of the evening was Justin Welsh as Leporello. With comedic timing second to none, Welsh’s Leporello was long-suffering, but wily, and every scene he was in was hilarious with so much physical comedy it brought the house down.
Daniel shines in Manitoba Opera's Gala Concert
ReviewThe crowd rose to their feet after this aria, applauding and cheering an downright incredible performance. And her singing in the final quartet, from Verdi's Rigoletto, reminded me of Denyce Graves.
Review: Re-telling stories with Amplify 1.0
ReviewIt's been quite the long-haul here in the GTA, but it's great to be back on the beat. After two years out of the habit, it was great to find myself at the Museum of Contemporary Art to check out Amplified Opera's first offering in their concert series — after several delays — AMPLIFY 1.0.