Australians had every reason to feel proud at this performance of Tosca, which showcased two homegrown artists delivering truly world-class performances: Marie Collier and Donald Smith. Collier's Tosca burns with intensity, yet she also brings a fragility and insecurity to the role that lend the diva a compelling human vulnerability. Donald Smith may lack Collier's refinement, but his burly tenor, strong legato, and vocal control make for a commanding and emotionally committed Cavaradossi.

Tito Gobbi's Scarpia is nothing short of genius. He balances the character's aristocratic exterior with a chilling inner cruelty, never overplaying the part but instead making every phrase count. Carlo Felice Cillario leads with somewhat cautious tempos, likely to accommodate an orchestra that, while enthusiastic, occasionally shows its technical limitations.