After the rapturous close of Act I—thanks to the thrilling chemistry of Leonie Rysanek and James King—this performance of Die Walküre could have easily lost momentum. Fortunately, Thomas Stewart and Berit Lindholm rise to the occasion and sustain the high level of artistry through the remainder of the opera.

Berit Lindholm's athletic soprano radiates youthful energy, perfectly suited to the role of Brünnhilde, while Thomas Stewart delivers a Wotan that is both noble and emotionally resonant. His dignified authority is matched by a warmth that humanizes the god's anguish.