The Savonlinna Opera Festival has once again delivered an exceptional production, this time with Verdi's Nabucco, showcasing the remarkable talents of soprano Marigona Qerkezi in the role of Abigaille. Critics across the board have praised her captivating performance, highlighting her extraordinary vocal prowess and commanding stage presence.
Jussi Mattila of Savon Sanomat commended Qerkezi's convincing portrayal, noting her exceptional musical skills in navigating the character's wide range of emotions. Mattila stated, "In the role of Abigail, Marigona Qerkezi performs convincingly, interpreting the role's wide range of emotions through her exceptionally strong musical skills."
Anne Välinoro, writing for Rondo, described Qerkezi as a revelation, emphasizing her versatility and passion in the role of Abigaille. Välinoro remarked, "Marigona Qerkezi, in the role of Abigaille, is a revelation. As the most controversial character, betraying both her father and sister while being the driving force of the events, she fulfills her role supremely. Qerkezi displays a broad sense of self-irony and genuine passion. She is versatile and clearly enjoys showcasing her acting skills. Abigaille, like a true conqueror, scorches the ground beneath her and others as she advances. Qerkezi truly has the ability to employ all tactics to defeat her adversaries."
Samuli Tiikkaja of Helsingin Sanomat also highlighted Qerkezi's standout performance, praising her flexible and sonorous voice. Tiikkaja wrote, "Soprano Marigona Qerkezi shone in the premiere in the role of Abigaille. The soloists had brilliant Italian-type voices, and soprano Marigona Qerkezi, who sang the villainous role of Abigaille, shone the brightest. She sang even the sudden turns of the demanding role with a flexible and sonorous voice effortlessly."
Riitta-Leena Lempinen-Vesa of Itä Savo hailed Qerkezi as a true vocal wonder, marveling at her ability to navigate the demanding role with ease and precision. Lempinen-Vesa commented, "Nabucco's music is early Verdi. It grabs the ear even at first listen. The cast of soloists is uniformly high-caliber, with each singer finer than the next. Still, two stand out above the rest: soprano Marigona Qerkezi as Abigaille and bass Mika Kares as Zaccaria. Qerkezi is a true vocal wonder. She meticulously and effortlessly navigates the massive cascades of notes. Despite her wide range and ease in hitting very high notes, her voice possesses depth and darkness. Qerkezi plays the scheming Abigaille with piquancy. Her fierce vocal acrobatics were so masterful that the audience could only gasp in amazement."
Marigona Qerkezi
Soprano
