Ensemble Zar is conducted with almost fierce directness and economy by Kanako Abe, who creates a hypnotic fluidity of texture and tone.
...the complexities of the score were navigated with virtuoso aplomb by conductor Kanako Abe...
“Young Hugh Mackey displayed tone as Robert, a promising well-aligned baritone, unwillingly betrothed to Iolanta."
"the memorable British debut of the Russian emigre tenor Misha Raitzin. ...Raitzin's voice has all its urbane strength and resilience with a greater malleability, and even the sharper edge of character. Hugh Mackey risked eclipse in his first encounter with him, but lifted his light, energetic baritone untiringly to meet Tchaikovsky's demands" The Times
The Icelandic bass-baritone Andri Björn Róbertsson was outstanding as the Craftsman and Gracchus.