The critic's review of the debut performance was overwhelmingly positive, choosing to _______ the young actress for her formidable stage presence and vocal control.

✓ Correct Answer: Option C

The review was 'overwhelmingly positive,' so the words must mean to praise. Both 'extol' and 'laud' mean to praise enthusiastically. 'Deprecate' and 'disparage' mean to belittle or criticize.