Parallel Universes in Ariadne auf Naxos

I enjoyed the trio of Nina Stemme, Kathleen Kim and Sarah Connolly who sang the lead roles in Richard Strauss' Ariadne auf Naxos. Each provided a different richness of voice to the opera. Kathleen Kim following along in the same path from her lighthearted and animated role as Olympia in The Tales of Hoffman sang the role of the worldly and fun-loving Zerbinetta. Her higher and agile soprano voice was of benefit here. Nina Stemme brought a royal presence and deep resonance of voice to the role of the Prima Donna and Ariadne. Sarah Connolly seemed a dependable bridge between the worlds of the other characters in her steady portrayal of the Composer.