La Cieca’s operative in San Francisco writes: “SFO’s marketing for the upcoming production of Attila has offered a rotating door of Odabellas. Sadly, as of the latest update, I’m fearing the musical chairs may have landed on the least favorable of the announced divas.”

Compare these three sopranos below (in order of their announcement), and see what you think.

First, Oksana Dyka:

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s0TSRpIclyE

Then came Maria Agresta:

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Su2Ylw0DJw

And, finally, Lucrezia Garcia:

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1eVW0jiC9UM

Our correspondent continues:

Garcia has the sketchiest technique, and appears to also be the least engaging actress (as per YouTube videos, which I know are only part of the picture).

I heard rumors online that conductor Nicola Luisotti preferred a known Scala cast (she recently sang the role there). Garcia may have at some point had the loveliest, darkest tone of the three, but already seems to be developing a wide vibrato, sounds labored throughout, and seems the poorest choice for the demands of this type of early Verdi role (brightness, coloratura: a la Varady).

La Cieca

James Jorden (who wrote under the names "La Cieca" and "Our Own JJ") was the founder and editor of parterre box. During his 20 year career as an opera critic he wrote for the New York Times, Opera, Gay City News, Opera Now, Musical America and the New York Post. He also raised his voice in punditry on National Public Radio. From time to time he directed opera, including three unsuccessful productions of Don Giovanni. He also contributed a regular column on opera for the New York Observer. James died in October 2023.

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