“Canadian mezzo-soprano Melissa Schiel shows a flair for the trouser role of the flirtatious fox... [her]
captivating love duet in Act 2, Scene 4 is one of the opera's highlights.” | The Denver Post
“Schiel not only boasts a velvety contralto, she displays bona fide acting smarts as well.”
| Victoria Times Colonist
“Schiel's command of the dramatic most notably in the closing piece was as good as anything I've seen
on the big stage.” | Monday Magazine
“The one really bright light in this production belongs to Melissa Schiel, whose performance of Berta
is a well-sung hoot from beginning to end ... she displays admirable skills as a vocalist.”
| The Buffalo News
“The production left in the sometimes cut maid's aria since it had in Melissa Schiel a Berta who could
sing it.” | The Toronto Star
“The warmth and richness Melissa Schiel imbued I am Lost to the World gave voice to a soul
seemingly well beyond its years.” | The Hamilton Spectator
“[In] this year’s attractive new class mezzo Melissa Schiel shone with particular promise.”
| The Boston Globe
“...a hit with audiences at the 2001 Mountain View Festival.” | The Calgary Herald