<<  -- 5 --  Maria Nockin    A LIGHT TOUCH

Heather Buck, who had sung Iris in Arizona Opera's memorable 2006 production of Semele, was a deliciously evil Queen of the Night. She sang her difficult music with stunning accuracy. Her three ladies, attractive apprentices Sara Gartshore, Paula Murrihy and Lucia Cervoni, moved well and blended their voices in faultless harmony.

John Stephens was a creditable speaker and Rob Asklove, a persuasive Priest. As the Armed Men, tenor Dimitri Pittas and Bass Joshua Bloom sang with powerful ringing tones. As Sarastro, Italian bass Andrea Silvestrelli had a commanding stage presence that emphasized his power over all other characters. As a result, it was no surprise that he prevailed at the end of the opera.

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