"[...]Calleja was transformed. His voice opened up, the phrasing seemed to come more naturally, and the emotion poured out. A thunderous ovation for this singer at the opera’s conclusion was well earned [...]."
LUCIA, MINNESOTA OPERA:
Mark Mazullo
REVIEWS: LUCIA DI LAMMERMOOR
Reviews of various performances of Lucia di Lammermor (Donizetti). Joseph Calleja performed the role of Edgardo:
Minnesota Opera, St Paul, US
10, 11, 13, 15, 16, 17 & 18 november 2001
INREVIEW
"His fine lirico spinto tone and wide, easy range are reminiscent of the late Beniamino Gigli. Calleja has a good deal to learn, particularly about musical phrasing and acting, but he is a significant vocal talent who shows great promise, and he was clearly an audience favorite."
John Koopman
Opera Minnesota, reviews section
"The young Maltese tenor, Joseph Calleja, drew a buzz for his American debut, earning these remarks from the critics: "..in their respective death scenes in Act III, both singers delivered confident and moving performances. In particular, Calleja was transformed. His voice opened up, the phrasing seemed to come more naturally, and the emotion poured out. A thunderous ovation for this singer at the opera’s conclusion was well earned." reported Mark Mazullo.
Jay Furst, for the Star Tribune wrote: "Calleja was in supurb voice…he has a potent, voluptuous tenor, a fearless, full range and an expressiveness that can be felt throughout the hall. His tomb scene left little doubt that he’s a major talent."
