I haven't enjoyed an opera this much in a long time, and I do see many, operas. I loved everything about it! The entire production, the singers were superb, (especially the countertenors, with Arsace being the most magnificent singer of the countertenors). The only drawback was the 3 1/2 hours. In length it almost rivaled Wagner Ring operas. I did not see the opera at the opera house because I live in WA State. I viewed it live streamed.

Mostly great-- the singers were almost uniformly terrific, managing very difficult coloratura roles while rolling backwards down stairs, climbing out windows, and jauntily dancing. So physically excellent, handsome, and well-dressed (too bad you can't say this for the audience). The counter tenors were superb. My one reservation was for Julie Fuchs, the soprano and lead, whose voice I found uneven, hoarse, and occasionally almost screechy. Perhaps it was just an off night for her as other reviewers have praised her highly. Her skill in singing this incredibly difficult role is undeniable; all those impossible runs and trills were expertly executed. The mezzo, who turned out to be a woman playing a man, was wonderful, and I originally thought she was a counter-tenor playing a woman. It was a confusing plot for those who came unprepared. The Man-Ray photographer /mask business made no sense at all to me. Sometimes enough is enough, and there was plenty. I could also do without a toilet mid-stage. It is opera after all. We like a bit of suspension of disbelief.