Zerlina in emma griffin’s new production of mozart’s don giovanni

‘Batti, batti, o bel Masetto’ was a defining moment for Niles as she sang with clear intention and thoughtful direction. She drew energy towards her in this aria by means of grace and natural affection, which created a space for one to observe her with genuine interest. Instead of singing this aria for the sake of sounding like a well-trained soprano, Niles intelligently detached her emotions and allowed for one of Mozart’s most beautiful arias to naturally come to life. It was apparent that she understood not only her character, but also how she could emote herself as an artist in this role.

—OperaWire

Jessica Niles brought sparkle to the role of Zerlina. There were no dark undertones to her ‘Batti, batti o bel Masetto’; rather, she was flirtatious and seductive as she coaxed forgiveness from her husband for having gone off with Don Giovanni on their wedding day.

—Seen and Heard International

…her Zerlina is a sweet-voiced spitfire who more than holds her own, vocally and in terms of star power.

—Parterre Box