This is a finely tuned opera with music by the Italian composer, Claudio Monteverdi, libretto by G. E. Busenello, and the fine voices of contralto Maria Ewing, baritone Dennis Bailey, and several other sub-leads is not to be missed and will be fully enjoyed. No lead tenor here and none needed. No soprano here as a lead and none needed. One of the joys of my watching and listening outside the opera hall. The story line is strong and the tale well carried out.

Cast

Maria Ewing

Poppea

Cynthia Clarey

Octavia

Robert Lloyd

Seneca

Dale Duesing

Ottone

Dennis Bailey

Nero

Elizabeth Gale

Drusilla

Raymond Leppard

Conductor