Madama Butterfly ★★★★½
Conductor Massimo Zanetti and the Opera Australia Orchestra provided expansive support, particularly to Son, in sustaining and drawing out the work’s big dramatic moments.
By Peter McCallum
June 29, 2019
Sydney Morning Herald
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The orchestral players under Massimo Zanetti were outstanding. His sensitive direction ensured singer audibility at all times, and yet the instrumentalists were not cowed into a characterless backing sound. Puccini’s score was giving a precise and vivid rendition. In sum, an excellent musical experience, and a highly interesting staging: definitely one to see.
By David Larkin,
01 July 2019
Bachtrack
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The music elevates everything happening on stage, with the Opera Australia orchestra in spectacular form under conductor Massimo Zanetti, who tastefully pulls every bit of yearning and pain from Puccini’s score.
BY: BEN NEUTZE
MONDAY JULY 1 2019
Time Out
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Conductor Massimo Zanetti and the Opera Australia Orchestra delivered stylish, sumptuous and energetic accompaniments.
By: Murray Black
01 July 2019
The Australian
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Puccini’s luscious score is attended to with grace, accuracy and energy by the OA Orchestra under the baton of Massimo Zanetti. They sound wonderful in every aspect, from tender moments to soaring crescendo, and in one of opera’s most demanding roles,
Karah Son is clearly at ease in the band’s embrace and on top form.
By: Diana Simmonds
Stagenoise
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The strengths of this new “Butterfly” for OA are in the singing, the extraordinary string section in the pit and the sensitive conducting of Massimo Zanetti, who gave a very clear idea of the dialogue and action.
By Helen Musa –
June 30, 2019
City News Australia
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The production still drips with beautiful musical moments. Thanks to conductor Massimo Zanetti, the visual impact exists alongside beautifully woven moments of Puccini music. The score unfolds full of fine balance, rich color and accessible verismo dialogue.
By: PAUL NOLAN
1 JULY 2019
Sydney arts guide
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