Pagliacci

"It has been widely discussed that one of the secrets to great acting is listening. Being present in the scene at all times and truly listening and reacting does more to establish a character than the actual delivery of lines. Cadie J. Bryan delivered a masterclass in dramatic presence. Sopranos undertaking the role of Nedda are tasked with navigating a multitude of intense moments and powerful emotions. She must be demeaning to Tonio and then disgusted and violently aggressive. She must be fearful of Canio but also draw upon her passions to withstand his jealousy as she refuses to name her lover. She must also burn with her passion for Silvio. Ms. Bryan’s portrayal was fluid and nuanced. She took full advantage of the more intimate staging environment with subtle facial expressions. Her voice is equally nuanced. She brought a steely edge to her derision of Tonio and a rich, lush depth to her love for Silvio...

Not only was their chemistry immediately apparent, but their on-stage intimacy radiated. It did, in all seriousness, create a wonderful authenticity for Nedda and Silvio and, married or not in real life, would not have been possible without the consummate skill and professionalism of both actors."

William Adams | TRIANGLE SINGS

November 10, 2025

"Cadie J. Bryan is terrific in the role of Nedda. Her voice is lustrous in her plangent solo “Stridono lassù” that describes her admiration and envy for the birds that call and fly free.

She is well matched by her real-life husband, Jonathan Bryan, who woos her with his lush baritone voice in the role of Silvio. When Nedda is fearful, Silvio is comforting. When she wavers from her vows of love, he persuades with all his charms. Their voices blend in the duet, “Nedda! Silvio! A quest’ora che imprudenza,” as she pleads with him to decide her fate – whether she will stay with cruel Canio and the life she knows, or leave him for a different path.

Both singers act with their whole bodies, adding impressive physicality to the beauty of their vocal abilities."

Lynn Felder | CULTURAL VOICE OF NORTH CAROLINA

November 11, 2025