Stefano De Peppo returned as the overbearing, possessive and — in his own mind at least — mistreated Don Bartolo. His characterization has both sharpened and deepened since his last appearance in this role, adding many subtleties that are only honed by experience. De Peppo had the luxury of singing in his native Italian, which gave him extra nuance and velocity when needed, especially in the patter sections of his arias.
Italian bass-baritone Stefano de Peppo demonstrated the comic flair and facility for tongue-twisting patter required to perform the role of the charalatan Doctor Dulcamara, the opera’s buffo character.
"De Peppo captures the contrast of Uberto’s gruff complaints and submissive resignation to his servant-mistress first in “Sempre in contrasti,” where he talks a good game of standing up to Serpina’s constant arguments. Supremely confident and sure of voice, De Peppo keeps all eyes on himself with clear gestures highlighting his intent. His deeply resonant bass-baritone voice is as captivating and agile as his movement."