“… A particular joy of Opera in Williamsburg’s staging of Così fan tutte was the casting of a young, vibrant Despina who both possesses and wields complete control over a fine voice… Soprano Kyaunnee Richardson ignite the performance with her fiery singing and personality… Vocally and comedically, Richardson was an typically endearing Despina who both earned her laughs and sang Mozart’s music with charm and technical flair…”
Stefano De Peppo returned as the overbearing, possessive and — in his own mind at least — mistreated Don Bartolo. His characterization has both sharpened and deepened since his last appearance in this role, adding many subtleties that are only honed by experience. De Peppo had the luxury of singing in his native Italian, which gave him extra nuance and velocity when needed, especially in the patter sections of his arias.