Daphne/R.Strauss at the Frankfurt Opera

“In the cast the Swedish soprano Maria Bengtsson shone as the extraordinary protagonist, the young nymph Daphne - perhaps giving the performance of her life.  After seeing and listening to her, I am more than surprised that she is not a more regular guest in the world's top opera houses, despite her many appearances in Berlin, London's Royal Opera and elsewhere in Europe.  She is a lyric soprano with a pleasant timbre who is absolutely fascinating when singing Strauss. If we add to this more than exceptional stage skills and an attractive figure on stage, I conclude that I cannot think of any better Daphne than hers anywhere today. This character needs a soprano similar to Arabella, although the music is  much more demanding vocally and it is good to remember that in recent years both Renée Fleming and June Anderson have sung the role: even so,  Maria Bengtsson's performance seemed like a kind of miracle… she is an ARTIST, in capital letters.”

10.04.2010 Seen and Heard International José M Irurzun