The Daughter of the Regiment Reviews

Chicago Tribune - Highly Recommended

"...Under the assured baton of guest conductor Speranza Scappucci, the Lyric orchestra and chorus ripened as the show progressed. Scattered disagreement between pit and stage in Act 1 eventually cohered into a lively, responsive account of Donizetti’s score, with an aching English horn solo by Judith Zunamon Lewis in “Il faut partir” and passionate first-desk monologues by concertmaster Robern Hanford and cellist Calum Cook in Act 2. Of the supporting cast, listen for the bountiful, arresting voice of Ryan Opera Center bass Ron Dukes, making a brief appearance as the Corporal."

Chicago Sun Times - Highly Recommended

"...Given the breadth of the operatic repertoire, some major works inevitably fall through the cracks. But it’s still hard to believe that Lyric Opera of Chicago had only presented “The Daughter of the Regiment (La fille du régiment)” once in its history — a star-studded production that took place almost exactly 50 years ago."

Stage and Cinema - Highly Recommended

"...It is hard to go wrong with Lawrence Brownlee: his sensuous and soaring tenor, knack for comedy, winsome smile and infectious energy warm every production he appears in. This Lyric production of Donizetti’s The Daughter of the Regiment (La Fille du Régiment) is no exception. Alongside Brownlee is the equally entertaining and dynamic Lisette Oropesa in her Lyric debut as the titular lead. To this, add Laurent Pelly as original director and costume designer and the young female conductor Speranza Scapucci and you have the makings of a superb production that cannot be recommended highly enough."

Around The Town Chicago - Highly Recommended

"...Despite having a storied history, Gaetano Donizetti’s 1840 farce The Daughter of the Regiment (La fille du régiment) has not often been seen on the stage of the Lyric Opera. However, the new-to-Chicago production originally directed by Laurent Pelly, with revival direction by Christian Räth, is a delightful showcase of the agile musical style the phrase “bel canto” was invented to describe, featuring familiar Lyric faces as well as new ones, and a highly dynamic as well as amusing staging. Love conquers all, the underdogs rise on their merit, families long torn asunder are reconciled."

Chicago On Stage - Highly Recommended

"...The Daughter of the Regiment is stunning and joyful, hilarious and fabulous, gorgeous and exquisite, clever and poignant. The music is beautiful. The arias soar. The performances are unforgettable. The orchestra’s terrific. It sounds fantastic and looks amazing. And above all, it is just pure fun. Undeniable, absolute fun. If you’re looking for an opera you can love, this is it."

NewCity Chicago - Recommended

"...When Tonio sings the famous “Ah! mes amis, quel jour de fête” with its eight high Cs, he’s acting like he’s on “The Voice.” Brownlee not only added the customary ninth high C, but continued on to repeat the entire aria as a rare and diversionary Lyric Opera encore."