Iwona Sobotka makes a triumphant house debut at Teatre Principal de Palma de Mallorca, earning rave reviews for her Senta in Wagner’s Der fliegende Holländer. Please read the reviews below:
There is no doubt that one of the indispensable requirements is to have a Senta of guaranteed quality, capable of reaching the climactic finale with the solidity that a character of such nuance and contrast demands. Impeccable was Iwona Sobotka, with an immense voice — velvety and subtle when required — and a natural vocal ease that cannot be taught, as she demonstrated from the very first notes of the Ballad, Johohoe! Traft ihr das Schiff — a declaration of intent and a showcase of her versatility. The production had already secured 50% of its challenge. — J.A. Mendiola
The two principal leads, George Gagnidze and Iwona Sobotka, excelled in their energetic and passionate portrayals. He delivered a tormented, intensely dramatic Dutchman, notable for his clear emission and unbroken vocal power. She received tremendous applause for her balanced and assured singing, which grew steadily in expressive and vocal intensity, shining in particular in the duet Wie aus der Ferne längst vergang’ner Zeiten and the trio Verzeiht! Mein Volk hält draußen. — Bàrbara Duran, Ópera Actual
There are so many factors to consider in assessing this production that it is difficult to establish any order of priority. What is certain is that the role demands a Senta of great power, capable of conveying every situation and emotion her character passes through. Iwona Sobotka met all of those requirements, with a voice of great presence, forcefulness, and no less coloratura. — J.E. Medina, Ultima Hora
Senta, here portrayed by soprano Iwona Sobotka, is a name that must be added to the golden list of singers who have graced these lyric seasons in Mallorca — for she was, without doubt, the most outstanding member of an already highly accomplished cast. — Pere Estelrich i Massutí, Diario de Mallorca
Polish soprano Iwona Sobotka delivered a Senta of firm and balanced singing, with a beautiful and expressive timbre. Particularly brilliant in the Ballad, Jo ho hoe! … Traft ihr das Schiff, and in the trio Verzeiht! Mein Volk hält draußen alongside the Dutchman and Daland. — Federico Figueroa, Opera World
