Performer: Jean-François Borras

To rebuild Maria Callas’s 1961 Medea is to invite the cruellest comparisons in opera. For most of a single night at Epidaurus, Greek National Opera withstands it, but then comes the final act...

Only soprano Eleonora Buratto’s Mimì added real warmth and pathos to Mario Pontiggi's staging. 

Ailyn Pérez draws every eye and ear to her in an easy-on-the-eye production that doesn't solve some of the work's inherent contradictions.

Liudmyla Monstyrska and John Relyea turn in strong performances and Plácido Domingo confirms his hallowed status, but Daniele Abbado's direction remains unappealing in this first revival.

Despite Angel Blue and Ryan Speedo Green, this revival of Franco Zeffirelli’s classic production lacked vocal colour.

Patricia Petibon manages to portray an absolutely charming Manon. She spans the space between innocence and worldliness and remains consistently energetic and delightful.