Allyson debuts at the Opéra Comique! She reprises the role of Arcabonne in JC Bach’s Amadis de Gaule

Check out this video clip from France TV about the production currently running at the Opéra Comique. The first reviews are in:

“Also reason to celebrate, Allyson McHardy, who doubles as the wicked fairy Morgane, an impressive force in both sadness and in anger…” (La Croix, 2 January 2012)

“Allyson McHardy’s fiery Arcabonne delivers the goods.” (Financial Times, 5 January 2012)

“It is certainly a coup for mezzo Allyson McHardy who takes the honour among the cast members – generous, raging, tormented, regal as the Queen of the Underworld captive of her own passion.” (Webthéa, 4 January 2012)

“Vocally young, the cast is dominated by the attractive mezzo Allyson McHardy. ” (Le Monde, 6 January 2012)

“Bravo certainly to Allyson McHardy, imperious Arcabonne, she carries the intrigue and the opera.” (Concert Classic, 3 January 2012)

“The women are definitely at a higher level:and especially Allyson McHardy as the evil Arcabonne. ” (L’Oeil et l’Oreille, 2 January 2012)

“Enchanted, the public at the first performances in Versailles gave an extremely enthusiastic, almost triumphal, response to the women soloists, H&sacutelène Guilmette and Allyson McHardy…” (Le Nouvel Observateur, 1 January 2012)