“The mezzo-soprano Veronica Simeoni, playing the part of Léonor, put in a five-star performance. Not only did the role fit her voice perfectly, but she allowed it to infuse her whole being. She truly became Léonor, her emotional state informing every aspect of the vocal performance. She modeled the vocal line through subtle dynamic and vocal inflections, backed by an array of colors to create a thoroughly believable Léonor. The act three showcase aria, “O mon Fernand,” in which she sings of her love for Fernand, but also of her dread that he may reject her, was delivered with great sensitivity and subtlety, in which every line was perfectly phrased to portray her conflicting emotions.”
Alan Neilson – operawire.com