It is very obvious why Renee Fleming revived this relatively obscure Rossini opera. It is a tour de force for the leading lady and Ms Fleming gives a bravura performance in the starring role. She is ably supported by the rest of the cast, especially Lawrence Brownlee as Rinaldo. While Armida is not a great opera, it is a very enjoyable. The Metropolitan Opera's whimsical minimalist staging of the opera emphasized the fantastical elements of the proceedings making it all the more entertaining. I especially liked the ending when Rinaldo is leaving the island and Armida is literally being pulled between a cherubic "Love" and a monstrous "Vengeance." All in all, this is great fun and I highly recommend it.