Cast change: Jennifer Rowley to replace Diana Damrau in Robert le diable
American soprano to sing role of Isabelle in Laurent Pelly's new production.
Jennifer Rowley is to replace Diana Damrau for all performances of Robert le diable following the German soprano’s earlier withdrawal due to pregnancy.
The American soprano will make her Royal Opera debut in the role, previously appearing as Magda in La rondine at Teatro Comunale di Bologna; the title role in Maria di Rohan at Caramoor Music Festival; Musetta in La bohème in Norway and Toledo; and Orasia in Telemann’s Orpheus for New York City Opera.
The rest of the cast remains unchanged with Bryan Hymel in the title role, John Relyea as Bertram, Marina Poplavskaya as Alice, Nicholas Courjal as Alberti and Jean-François Borras as Raimbaut.
Laurent Pelly’s production opens on 6 December.
I'll be curious to hear Ms Rowley, but I must admit I'm quite disappointed that the ROH couldn't muster a more high-profile name to replace Damrau; this was supposed to be a season highlight, and although it'll be fascinating to see the piece, there is now not a single major star in the cast - and this for a new production! Why not Patrizia Ciofi, who has done the role before? At least this was announced before tickets went on sale.
This girl is the real deal. Not only is she a marvelous singer but a very gifted actress. Before you miss something extraordinary, buy a ticket, sit back and let Ms Rowley demonstrate that you and all those high-profile opera watchers need to keep your eyes firmly fixed on this rising star.
Jennifer Rowley is incredible.... I first heard her in 2008 and fell madly in love with her voice! I love her as a person and respect her as a fellow artist. This diva wears her heart on her sleeve when she sings which few people do these days. When she steps onto the stage it is HERS! Please stop with the disappointment and be proud of your country for taking this risk on a singer who is not afraid of anything!
Where is Toldeo?
Really, ROH Press Department?
Thanks for the correction.
Toldeo is in Spian - as Molesworth might have said "As any fule kno"!