Susan Graham takes on the role of a lifetime. Joshua Barone writes in The New York Times:
Fans who have grown accustomed to Ms. Graham’s sweetness, both onstage and off, might be caught off guard by “Regina”; it demands a vocal ugliness that would drive some singing teachers insane. And her soothing stage presence takes a turn for the venomous here.
“The character fits me scarily well,” she said. “I must have an inner Regina.”… Local reviews have been laudatory, and her voice sounds as powerful and assured as ever. In her trademark way, she somehow manages to make the irredeemable Regina sympathetic, even tragic.
“‘Regina’ may be a piece whose time has come, especially as presented here in James Robinson’s production, suggestive of the Southern locale and early-20th-century period, and performed by an exceptional cast led by the mezzo-soprano Susan Graham in the title role.” The New York Times
“…a gripping music drama in the hands of a superb cast and production team.” St. Louis Post-Dispatch
“[Blitzstein’s] score is rich and diverse….[Graham] absolutely nails it.” Broadway World
“Under the masterful baton of Opera Theatre’s long-time Music Director Stephen Lord, Blitzstein’s score proves to be an endlessly inventive collage of styles, masterfully tailored to fit each character and situation…. ‘Regina’ is an American classic, and the Opera Theater production is a triumph in every respect.” KDHX.org
“There are no real love songs here. There is, however, beautiful music that’s immediately approachable, including a gorgeous song about the rain that begins the third act — a reminder that there can be moments of beauty even in a pit of vipers, and that salvation lies in seeking out kind people and running from cruelty.” River Front Times
“Where ‘Regina’ ranks among American operas is up for debate but this OTSL production makes a case for inclusion near the top.” OperaWire.com