I respectfully disagree with the low rating this Fille Du Regiment has. I saw this production as I loved the ROH and Met performances that also featured Natalie Dessay and Juan Diego Florez, and I loved it. The production values are fine, the costumes make more of an impression than the sets, though the latter are above serviceable. The staging is entertaining with wit and not relying on gimmicks. The orchestral playing brings Donizetti's music vigorous energy and crisp style, while the conducting keeps things flying by smoothly and the chorus are well blended. With Natalie Dessay you are guaranteed a fun and vocally thrilling performance, and that is exactly what her Marie is. Juan Diego Florez is attractive as Tonio, and continues to impress with his effortless high Cs. Carlos Alvarez's dark and burnished sound is perhaps more suited to Verdi, though he sings still beautifully as Sulpice and has a lively stage presence. Janina Beachle is a characterful Marquise, while Montserrat Caballe is hilarious as the Duchess. All in all, a very well sung and thoroughly entertaining performance. 10/10 Bethany Cox
