‘The libretto by Giovanni Faustini is cynical, irreverent, and hilariously amusing. We see Jupiter enamoured of Calisto, one of Diana’s chaste devotees; when she repulses him he assumes the shape of Diana and successfully seduces her. We see the real Diana overcome her votive chastity through love for the shepherd Endymion. Linfea, another of her nymphs, more elderly, likewise succumbs to the predatory lusts of Pan and his satyrs. Juno arrives full of righteous indignation, recognizes her husband even when disguised as Diana, and soon transforms Calisto into a little bear. Jupiter rescues her from this metamorphosis and translates her into the constellation of Ursa Minor, taking her up to heaven on an ample and comfortable couch … La Calisto gives us one exquisitely beautiful number after another, justifying those experts who have pointed to Cavalli’s depth of dramatic characterization.’
The Times (WIlliam Mann)