The Return of Ulysses presented by Chicago Opera Theater at Harris Theater

Windy City Times - Recommended

"...Strong performances and distinct characterizations abound throughout the large and attractive ensemble. As Penelope and Ulisse, Marie Lenormand and Mark Le Brocq respectively illustrate all the necessary longing and pent-up passion built into librettist Giacomo Badoaro’s contemplative text about love, fate and fortune."

ChicagoCritic - Recommended

"...COT's production is visually, aurally, and dramatically stunning; it brings together a story from Antiquity, music from the Baroque, and contemporary direction to create a sense of timeless drama. This drama, however, would go unnoticed if it were not for the intensity of the performers. In more familiar operas, the drama is often embedded in the music, and the singers must focus on singing first and acting second. Ulysses requires the singers to balance these tasks, for Monteverdi is more subtle in his musical drama than some of the later Italian composers. The performers, under the direction of Diane Paulus, show that they understand this responsibility. The result feels more like a play that is sung rather than music that is acted out."