The United States tour was the subject of unbridled praise, and though audiences were stunned at the sight of her physical dimensions, especially on the concert stage in New York, her singing and artistic instincts received unanimous critical acclaim.
In the happiest of circumstances Anita returned to Italy and a debut at Naples’ Teatro San Carlo that would result in the most important musical event of her life.
On 26 December 1957, Anita debuted at the San Carlo in the role of Norma, and she received her accustomed superlatives. The voice was described as of enormous dimensions, and the technique and expression worthy of comparison to the greatest. She repeated the role on the 28th and spent a quiet New Year with Edo at their hotel.