13 Opera’s essential artist

Critics aren’t stingy with superlatives when it comes to Sondra Radvanovsky. The soprano’s heroic, tender take on the druid high priestess Norma was the type of performance that will be talked about for generations, and her heart-rending portrayal of Elizabeth I in Donizetti’s Tudor drama earned her the label “essential artist” from the New York Times. For her upcoming recital, Radvanovsky puts stage regality aside, interspersing a sumptuous and challenging vocal program with personal anecdotes. Joined by pianist Anthony Manoli, she’ll reprise some of the most iconic roles from her decades-long career, showcasing her magical ability to bring the cardboard characters of 19th-century melodrama to life.