Heidi Waleson

“Verdi’s ‘Macbeth’ (1847, revised 1865) is a ferocious work, and the riveting new production by director Louisa Proske that opened the Metropolitan Opera season on Tuesday evening did not hold back.”

“The excellent Met chorus, a crucial and almost omnipresent element in the musical fabric, acted like another instrument in this brilliantly textured tapestry.”

“Through an alchemical synthesis of music, text and dramaturgy, the audience is immersed in the deepest feelings of its characters.”

“Mr. Sharon’s direction wove together the different strands of the opera and the production, exploring the narrative and themes while encompassing the humanity of the characters.”

“Riccardo Frizza’s fluid conducting drew out the score’s long bel canto lines and limned its propulsive rhythmic structure, and his flexible support of the singers made every aria and ensemble breathe and soar.”

“However, ‘Carmen,’ one of the opera canon’s hoariest chestnuts, proved impervious to Ms. Cracknell’s efforts.”

“Mr. Van Hove’s detailed, intentional directing made the characters and their motivations and interactions leap to the fore.”