I saw the same performance and agree with your reaction. She has a very strong voice, and surprising nuance and control for her level of experience. Just getting cast as Norma in her first role shows a lot of confidence on her part, and support from the opera company. I'm a tough audience for Casta Diva after hearing the Maria Callas version, but Meade did a fine job and I'm really looking forward to seeing what she does in the future.
Interestingly I also heard Susan Dunn at the WNO years ago, I think in Trovatore. I thought she was great, and was surprised I never saw her appear in anything again.