A Star Next to the Moon - Excellent Four Star Reviews!
A Star Next to the Moon: a complex new opera superbly performed by a talented young cast ****
Nicholas Kenyon Chief Opera Critic The Telegraph 27 February 2024
Shana Moron-Caravell and Vladyslava Ionascu-Yokovenko as Gossips (David Monteith-Hodge Photographise
**** Stephen McNeff’s A Star Next to the Moon has the magical phenomena and lore in a contemporary setting that is typically found in magical realism, alongside the gothic elements of mystery, the paranormal and gloom. This creates the story of a haunting, the past bleeding to the present in a liminal space, throughout bloodlines, histories and neighborhoods.
Opera Now Lauren McQuistin. Thursday, February 29, 2024
Rachel Roper as Dorotea (David Monteith-Hodge Photographise)
McNeff’s score, a chromatic collage of modern musical elements and traditional nuances, proves to be a challenging yet rewarding experience. The orchestral gestures, punctuated by a mesmerizing harpsichord solo and unforgettable melodies, showcase the composer’s prowess. …the captivating music, exquisite orchestration, and standout performances
A Young(ish) Perspective, Alexander Pearn 1 March 2024
(Jonah Halton as Father Rentaria) David Monteith-Hodge Photographise
A Star Next to the Moon review – McNeff’s vivid new opera with guitar, gangsters and a ghost town
Andrew Clements The Guardian Thu 29 Feb 2024 17.31 GMT
Holly Brown as Susana San Juan (David Monteith-Hodge Photographise)
Stephen McNeff's powerful new opera tells a disturbing story with a performance that pulls no punches and outstanding contributions from the young cast. …a remarkably rich piece…
Robert Hugill Planet Hugill 26 February 2024
Also, See Robert’s Preview of A Star Next to the Moon here.
