Reviews: Opera Atelier’s Resurrection Live Performance !

Mezzo-soprano Allyson McHardy sings Mary of Cleophas, lush and mellow-toned and masterfully attentive. Cleophas’ euphoric aria, Vedo il Ciel che più sereno/Si fa intorno e più risplende (“I see the skies turn to colour and shine ever brighter”), a vibrant outpouring of exuberance and relief as she realizes Christ lives, is positively rapturous. (Opera Going Toronto, Ian Ritchie, April 8 2023)

Soprano Megan Lindsay and mezzo-soprano Allyson McHardy had the the toughest roles and had to sing the emotionally-draining lamentations. There can be no greater depth of grief than for the torture and death of the Saviour. They recall that even while on the cross when He asked for a drink He was given vinegar. It was that type of emotional level that the two singers had to express and they did. Lindsay has a superb, expressive voice. McHardy has a rich mezzo instrument that is capable of some marvelously low notes. (Reviews and Views, James Karas, April 9 2023)

… mezzo Allyson McHardy’s (as Mary Cleophas) very dark tones … made a splendid companion for Mary Magdalene, every bit as moving in her grief. The several duets between the Marys were among the evening’s highlights. (Bachtrack, John Gilks, April 7 2023)