By Warwick Thompson [Bloomberg.com, 12 January 2007]

Jan. 12 (Bloomberg) -- Donizetti's ``La Fille du Regiment'' has a poorly motivated plot, flimsy characterization and plenty of rum-ti-tum accompaniments. It also needs a tenor who can pump out nine top Cs at the drop of a hat, and a high soprano who doesn't mind taking the odd pratfall. No wonder it hasn't been heard at London's Royal Opera House in 40 years.