The Met Expands Its Repertory In The 2009-10 Season
by Gabrielle Sierra - February 10, 2009
Eight new productions, four of which are company premieres, will highlight the Metropolitan Opera's 2009-10 season. General Manager Peter Gelb and Music Director James Levine jointly announced plans that include: the Met premieres of Rossini's Armida, Verdi's Attila, Jan?ček's From the House of the Dead, and Shostakovich's The Nose; new productions of Bizet's Carmen, Offenbach's Les Contes d'Hoffmann, Thomas's Hamlet, and Puccini's Tosca; and 18 revivals from the company's repertory. The season is the first to be entirely planned under Gelb's leadership, in collaboration with Levine (the past three seasons were planned before Gelb became General Manager in 2006-07 but included some productions, repertoire, and casting changes made by Gelb).
by Gabrielle Sierra - February 10, 2009
Eight new productions, four of which are company premieres, will highlight the Metropolitan Opera's 2009-10 season. General Manager Peter Gelb and Music Director James Levine jointly announced plans that include: the Met premieres of Rossini's Armida, Verdi's Attila, Jan?ček's From the House of the Dead, and Shostakovich's The Nose; new productions of Bizet's Carmen, Offenbach's Les Contes d'Hoffmann, Thomas's Hamlet, and Puccini's Tosca; and 18 revivals from the company's repertory. The season is the first to be entirely planned under Gelb's leadership, in collaboration with Levine (the past three seasons were planned before Gelb became General Manager in 2006-07 but included some productions, repertoire, and casting changes made by Gelb).
Guleghina, Domingo, Borodina Star In Adriana Lecouvreur 2/6
by BWW News Desk - February 06, 2009
Maria Guleghina and Pl?cido Domingo star in Cilea's Adriana Lecouvreur, which opens at the Metropolitan Opera on February 6 with Domingo returning to sing the role of his Met debut 40 years ago. Guleghina sings Adriana, the famous actress in love with the military hero Maurizio, sung by Domingo. Olga Borodina sings the Principessa di Bouillon, Adriana's rival for Maurizio's affections, and Roberto Frontali is Adriana's faithful friend Michonnet. Marco Armiliato conducts all performances, and Marcello Giordani sings the role of Maurizio on February 17. All the principal singers other than Domingo are performing their roles for the first time at the Met. Mark Lamos stages this revival, with set designs by C.M. Cristini after sketches by Camillo Paravicini and costume designs by Ray Diffen with additional costumes by Jane Greenwood. Lighting design is by Duane Schuler and choreography by Sergei Gritsai.
by BWW News Desk - February 06, 2009
Maria Guleghina and Pl?cido Domingo star in Cilea's Adriana Lecouvreur, which opens at the Metropolitan Opera on February 6 with Domingo returning to sing the role of his Met debut 40 years ago. Guleghina sings Adriana, the famous actress in love with the military hero Maurizio, sung by Domingo. Olga Borodina sings the Principessa di Bouillon, Adriana's rival for Maurizio's affections, and Roberto Frontali is Adriana's faithful friend Michonnet. Marco Armiliato conducts all performances, and Marcello Giordani sings the role of Maurizio on February 17. All the principal singers other than Domingo are performing their roles for the first time at the Met. Mark Lamos stages this revival, with set designs by C.M. Cristini after sketches by Camillo Paravicini and costume designs by Ray Diffen with additional costumes by Jane Greenwood. Lighting design is by Duane Schuler and choreography by Sergei Gritsai.
Richard Foreman And John Zorn Team Up At Ontological Theater
by Gabrielle Sierra - February 04, 2009
This year, Richard Foreman, that shape-shifting shaman, teams up with the equally hard-to-pin-down composer, John Zorn for Astronome: A Night At The Opera at The Ontological Theater at St. Mark's Church beginning February 5th. This is the historic first time collaboration for these two MacArthur geniuses who, individually, have challenged, enlightened and entertained adventurous audiences for years. Film is not in the mix this time around but Foreman's theater machine, with the inclusion of Zorn's invigorating score continues to explore his favorite resource, the special electricity projected by raw human consciousness.
by Gabrielle Sierra - February 04, 2009
This year, Richard Foreman, that shape-shifting shaman, teams up with the equally hard-to-pin-down composer, John Zorn for Astronome: A Night At The Opera at The Ontological Theater at St. Mark's Church beginning February 5th. This is the historic first time collaboration for these two MacArthur geniuses who, individually, have challenged, enlightened and entertained adventurous audiences for years. Film is not in the mix this time around but Foreman's theater machine, with the inclusion of Zorn's invigorating score continues to explore his favorite resource, the special electricity projected by raw human consciousness.
Piotr Beczala Will Sing Edgardo In LUCIA DI LAMMERMOOR 2/7
by Gabrielle Sierra - February 04, 2009
Piotr Beczala will sing Edgardo in Donizetti's Lucia di Lammermoor on Saturday, February 7 at 1:00 p.m., replacing Rolando Villaz?n who is ill. The performance is being transmitted worldwide as part of The Met: Live in HD series. Mr. Beczala sang the role of Edgardo this past October at the Met to both public and critical acclaim. He is currently singing Lensky in Tchaikovsky's Eugene Onegin at the Met, with remaining performances on February 5, 9, 14 matinee, 18, and 21 evening.
by Gabrielle Sierra - February 04, 2009
Piotr Beczala will sing Edgardo in Donizetti's Lucia di Lammermoor on Saturday, February 7 at 1:00 p.m., replacing Rolando Villaz?n who is ill. The performance is being transmitted worldwide as part of The Met: Live in HD series. Mr. Beczala sang the role of Edgardo this past October at the Met to both public and critical acclaim. He is currently singing Lensky in Tchaikovsky's Eugene Onegin at the Met, with remaining performances on February 5, 9, 14 matinee, 18, and 21 evening.
Guleghina, Domingo, Borodina Star In Adriana Lecouvreur 2/6
by Gabrielle Sierra - January 30, 2009
Maria Guleghina and Pl?cido Domingo star in Cilea's Adriana Lecouvreur, which opens at the Metropolitan Opera on February 6 with Domingo returning to sing the role of his Met debut 40 years ago. Guleghina sings Adriana, the famous actress in love with the military hero Maurizio, sung by Domingo. Olga Borodina sings the Principessa di Bouillon, Adriana's rival for Maurizio's affections, and Roberto Frontali is Adriana's faithful friend Michonnet. Marco Armiliato conducts all performances, and Marcello Giordani sings the role of Maurizio on February 17. All the principal singers other than Domingo are performing their roles for the first time at the Met. Mark Lamos stages this revival, with set designs by C.M. Cristini after sketches by Camillo Paravicini and costume designs by Ray Diffen with additional costumes by Jane Greenwood. Lighting design is by Duane Schuler and choreography by Sergei Gritsai.
by Gabrielle Sierra - January 30, 2009
Maria Guleghina and Pl?cido Domingo star in Cilea's Adriana Lecouvreur, which opens at the Metropolitan Opera on February 6 with Domingo returning to sing the role of his Met debut 40 years ago. Guleghina sings Adriana, the famous actress in love with the military hero Maurizio, sung by Domingo. Olga Borodina sings the Principessa di Bouillon, Adriana's rival for Maurizio's affections, and Roberto Frontali is Adriana's faithful friend Michonnet. Marco Armiliato conducts all performances, and Marcello Giordani sings the role of Maurizio on February 17. All the principal singers other than Domingo are performing their roles for the first time at the Met. Mark Lamos stages this revival, with set designs by C.M. Cristini after sketches by Camillo Paravicini and costume designs by Ray Diffen with additional costumes by Jane Greenwood. Lighting design is by Duane Schuler and choreography by Sergei Gritsai.
City Opera Presents 'I'M ON MY WAY' For Black History 1/28
by BWW News Desk - January 28, 2009
In honor of Black History Month, City Opera co-presents a three-part series, Black History at New York City Opera, with the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture. The first program, 'I'm on My Way': Black History at City Opera on Wednesday, January 28, 2009, commemorates the rich African-American contributions to City Opera's heritage and the great African-American works and artists who have graced City Opera's stage. Continuing with 'One Fine Day': A Tribute to Camilla Williams on Wednesday, February 11, 2009 and 'Troubled Island': 60th Anniversary Celebration on Tuesday, March 31, 2009, the programs feature discussion, live performance, special guests, historic slides and audio and video clips. All three events take place at the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, located at 15 Malcolm X Boulevard in New York City.
by BWW News Desk - January 28, 2009
In honor of Black History Month, City Opera co-presents a three-part series, Black History at New York City Opera, with the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture. The first program, 'I'm on My Way': Black History at City Opera on Wednesday, January 28, 2009, commemorates the rich African-American contributions to City Opera's heritage and the great African-American works and artists who have graced City Opera's stage. Continuing with 'One Fine Day': A Tribute to Camilla Williams on Wednesday, February 11, 2009 and 'Troubled Island': 60th Anniversary Celebration on Tuesday, March 31, 2009, the programs feature discussion, live performance, special guests, historic slides and audio and video clips. All three events take place at the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, located at 15 Malcolm X Boulevard in New York City.
Making Connections Series Announces Next Five Sessions
by BWW News Desk - January 27, 2009
OPERA America, the national service organization for opera, announces the next five sessions of its ongoing Making Connections series, a professional development and networking program nurturing the next generation of performing and creative artists. Making Connections is geared toward early-career artists, including singers, composers, librettists, designers, directors and others who work in or would like to work in the field of opera. During the course of the full 2008-2009 Making Connections season, which runs from September through May, OPERA America will present a total of 18 different sessions. Each begins with an hour-long panel discussion followed by an informal reception where attendees have the opportunity to meet one-on-one with the panelists, providing a unique networking opportunity. 'One of the most exciting aspects of Making Connections is this direct exchange between the participants,' stated Marc A. Scorca, president & CEO of OPERA America. 'In the increasingly competitive arts community, often it's not only what you know, but who you know that can make a difference. Through Making Connections, OPERA America is able to foster a real dialogue between aspiring artists and decision-makers in the opera community.'
by BWW News Desk - January 27, 2009
OPERA America, the national service organization for opera, announces the next five sessions of its ongoing Making Connections series, a professional development and networking program nurturing the next generation of performing and creative artists. Making Connections is geared toward early-career artists, including singers, composers, librettists, designers, directors and others who work in or would like to work in the field of opera. During the course of the full 2008-2009 Making Connections season, which runs from September through May, OPERA America will present a total of 18 different sessions. Each begins with an hour-long panel discussion followed by an informal reception where attendees have the opportunity to meet one-on-one with the panelists, providing a unique networking opportunity. 'One of the most exciting aspects of Making Connections is this direct exchange between the participants,' stated Marc A. Scorca, president & CEO of OPERA America. 'In the increasingly competitive arts community, often it's not only what you know, but who you know that can make a difference. Through Making Connections, OPERA America is able to foster a real dialogue between aspiring artists and decision-makers in the opera community.'
Recipients Of Opera Trustee Recognition Awards Announced
by Gabrielle Sierra - January 26, 2009
OPERA America, the national service organization for opera, is proud to announce the 2009 recipients of the National Opera Trustee Recognition Award. In its second year, this award honors trustees of U.S. opera companies for exemplary leadership, generosity and audience building efforts on behalf of their respective opera companies. The 2009 National Opera Trustee Recognition honorees are Mr. John T. Cody, Jr. of The Dallas Opera, Mr. Richard Holland of Opera Omaha, Mrs. Beth Ingram of Lyric Opera of Kansas City, and Mr. C. Guy Rudisill, III of Piedmont Opera. OPERA America is committed to recognizing strong trustee leaders, understanding the pivotal role they play in the success of opera companies and the vitality of the communities they serve. In acknowledging and celebrating the dedication of board members at the national level, the National Opera Trustee Recognition Program seeks to strengthen the relationships between opera companies and their trustees and to inspire exemplary service to opera companies across the United States. 'Presenting consistently high-quality opera requires a dedicated staff guided and supported by a strong board,' stated Marc A. Scorca, president & CEO of OPERA America. 'The value of dedicated board members who provide passion, vision and generous support cannot be overstated. We are pleased to be joined by Bank of America in recognizing the achievements of these trustees.'
by Gabrielle Sierra - January 26, 2009
OPERA America, the national service organization for opera, is proud to announce the 2009 recipients of the National Opera Trustee Recognition Award. In its second year, this award honors trustees of U.S. opera companies for exemplary leadership, generosity and audience building efforts on behalf of their respective opera companies. The 2009 National Opera Trustee Recognition honorees are Mr. John T. Cody, Jr. of The Dallas Opera, Mr. Richard Holland of Opera Omaha, Mrs. Beth Ingram of Lyric Opera of Kansas City, and Mr. C. Guy Rudisill, III of Piedmont Opera. OPERA America is committed to recognizing strong trustee leaders, understanding the pivotal role they play in the success of opera companies and the vitality of the communities they serve. In acknowledging and celebrating the dedication of board members at the national level, the National Opera Trustee Recognition Program seeks to strengthen the relationships between opera companies and their trustees and to inspire exemplary service to opera companies across the United States. 'Presenting consistently high-quality opera requires a dedicated staff guided and supported by a strong board,' stated Marc A. Scorca, president & CEO of OPERA America. 'The value of dedicated board members who provide passion, vision and generous support cannot be overstated. We are pleased to be joined by Bank of America in recognizing the achievements of these trustees.'
THE FIREBRAND OF FLORENCE Begins 3/12
by Gabrielle Sierra - January 26, 2009
On March 12, 2009 at 7:00 p.m., The Collegiate Chorale appears with The New York City Opera Orchestra at the newly renovated Alice Tully Hall in a performance of Kurt Weill and Ira Gershwin's 1945 Broadway operetta The Firebrand of Florence. The performance, led by guest conductor Ted Sperling, stars baritone Nathan Gunn, soprano Anna Christy, baritone Terrence Mann, and soprano Victoria Clark. Krysty Swann, David Pittu and Patrick Goss complete the cast, and narration will be provided by Stage Director Roger Rees. Boasting a score by Kurt Weill, lyrics by Ira Gershwin, and a book by playwright and screenwriter Edwin Justus Mayer, The Firebrand of Florence had a short run on Broadway in 1945. The work was subsequently not heard for over a half-century until three presentations - Ohio Light Opera (1999), the BBC Symphony Orchestra in London (2000) and the Radio Symphony Orchestra in Vienna (2000) - shed new light on the relatively obscure work. The performances were not only accepted, but widely acclaimed, thus giving hope for a new life in a new century. Variety's theater critic Steven Suskin says 'I have long believed that Firebrand in concert should be a dazzling delight.' Benvenuto Cellini, the great Florentine artist, is sentenced to hang, but he is pardoned when the duke realizes that he has not completed a previously commissioned sculpture. Freed, he is able to turn his attention to his favorite model (and object of his affections), Angela. The Duke also is interested in Angela. In a typical operetta plot, Cellini swashbuckles around the stage, keeping the Duke away from Angela, keeping himself away from the Duchess, and escaping yet another death sentence by fleeing to Paris, as the end of the show recapitulates the beginning.
by Gabrielle Sierra - January 26, 2009
On March 12, 2009 at 7:00 p.m., The Collegiate Chorale appears with The New York City Opera Orchestra at the newly renovated Alice Tully Hall in a performance of Kurt Weill and Ira Gershwin's 1945 Broadway operetta The Firebrand of Florence. The performance, led by guest conductor Ted Sperling, stars baritone Nathan Gunn, soprano Anna Christy, baritone Terrence Mann, and soprano Victoria Clark. Krysty Swann, David Pittu and Patrick Goss complete the cast, and narration will be provided by Stage Director Roger Rees. Boasting a score by Kurt Weill, lyrics by Ira Gershwin, and a book by playwright and screenwriter Edwin Justus Mayer, The Firebrand of Florence had a short run on Broadway in 1945. The work was subsequently not heard for over a half-century until three presentations - Ohio Light Opera (1999), the BBC Symphony Orchestra in London (2000) and the Radio Symphony Orchestra in Vienna (2000) - shed new light on the relatively obscure work. The performances were not only accepted, but widely acclaimed, thus giving hope for a new life in a new century. Variety's theater critic Steven Suskin says 'I have long believed that Firebrand in concert should be a dazzling delight.' Benvenuto Cellini, the great Florentine artist, is sentenced to hang, but he is pardoned when the duke realizes that he has not completed a previously commissioned sculpture. Freed, he is able to turn his attention to his favorite model (and object of his affections), Angela. The Duke also is interested in Angela. In a typical operetta plot, Cellini swashbuckles around the stage, keeping the Duke away from Angela, keeping himself away from the Duchess, and escaping yet another death sentence by fleeing to Paris, as the end of the show recapitulates the beginning.
Thomas Hampson Performs the Title Role in Eugene Onegin Opposite Karita Mattila in her First Met Tatiana
by BWW News Desk - January 26, 2009
Tchaikovsky's romantic masterpiece Eugene Onegin, based on the Pushkin poem, returns to the Met on Friday, January 30, with a superb international cast. American baritone Thomas Hampson returns to the role of Onegin, the haughty aristocrat who acknowledges love too late, opposite the Finnish soprano Karita Mattila making her Met role debut as Tatiana, who grows from a love-struck young girl to an aristocratic woman. Russian mezzo-soprano Ekaterina Semenchuk is her sister, Olga; Polish tenor Piotr Beczala is Lenski, Onegin's doomed friend; and Russian bass Sergei Aleksashkin is Gremin, the elderly prince who marries Tatiana. Aleksashkin will sing the first two performances and American bass James Morris, taking on the role for the first time at the Met, does the remainder of the run. Czech maestro Jiř? Bĕlohl?vek conducts all performances, through February 21. The production is by Robert Carsen, sets and costumes are by Michael Levine, Jean Kalman is the lighting designer, and the choreographer is Serge Bennathan.
by BWW News Desk - January 26, 2009
Tchaikovsky's romantic masterpiece Eugene Onegin, based on the Pushkin poem, returns to the Met on Friday, January 30, with a superb international cast. American baritone Thomas Hampson returns to the role of Onegin, the haughty aristocrat who acknowledges love too late, opposite the Finnish soprano Karita Mattila making her Met role debut as Tatiana, who grows from a love-struck young girl to an aristocratic woman. Russian mezzo-soprano Ekaterina Semenchuk is her sister, Olga; Polish tenor Piotr Beczala is Lenski, Onegin's doomed friend; and Russian bass Sergei Aleksashkin is Gremin, the elderly prince who marries Tatiana. Aleksashkin will sing the first two performances and American bass James Morris, taking on the role for the first time at the Met, does the remainder of the run. Czech maestro Jiř? Bĕlohl?vek conducts all performances, through February 21. The production is by Robert Carsen, sets and costumes are by Michael Levine, Jean Kalman is the lighting designer, and the choreographer is Serge Bennathan.
MOSES AND ARRON Concludes Opera Matters Program On 1/25
by BWW News Desk - January 25, 2009
Cinematic Opera/Operatic Cinema: Reflections on the Merging of Media, a collaboration between New York City Opera and the Film Society of Lincoln Center that is part of City Opera's Opera Matters program, will be concluded on January 25th with screening of Moses and Aaron.
by BWW News Desk - January 25, 2009
Cinematic Opera/Operatic Cinema: Reflections on the Merging of Media, a collaboration between New York City Opera and the Film Society of Lincoln Center that is part of City Opera's Opera Matters program, will be concluded on January 25th with screening of Moses and Aaron.
Verdi's Popular Masterpiece RIGOLETTO Returns To The Met
by Reynard Loki - January 19, 2009
Verdi's popular masterpiece Rigoletto returns to the repertory on January 24 with baritone Roberto Frontali making his Met role debut as the hunchback jester and conductor Riccardo Frizza in his company debut. They are joined by Aleksandra Kurzak as Gilda and Giuseppe Filianoti as the Duke of Mantua, both of whom are also singing their roles for the first time at the Met. Viktoria Vizin makes her Met debut as Maddalena, and Mikhail Petrenko sings his first Sparafucile with the company. Georgian bass George Gagnidze makes his Met debut on January 27 in the title role and sings the following five performances through February 12. Piotr Beczala, whose performances as Edgardo in Lucia di Lammermoor last fall drew wide acclaim, sings the Duke on February 12. A second run of performances begins April 1 and features the first Met Gilda of Diana Damrau, who earlier this season created a sensation with her interpretation of the title role of Lucia di Lammermoor. She will be partnered with Joseph Calleja as the Duke and Roberto Frontali as Rigoletto. Frontali returns for the April performances which run through April 17. Tamara Mumford sings Maddalena and Raymond Aceto is Sparafucile in the April cast. About the performers
by Reynard Loki - January 19, 2009
Verdi's popular masterpiece Rigoletto returns to the repertory on January 24 with baritone Roberto Frontali making his Met role debut as the hunchback jester and conductor Riccardo Frizza in his company debut. They are joined by Aleksandra Kurzak as Gilda and Giuseppe Filianoti as the Duke of Mantua, both of whom are also singing their roles for the first time at the Met. Viktoria Vizin makes her Met debut as Maddalena, and Mikhail Petrenko sings his first Sparafucile with the company. Georgian bass George Gagnidze makes his Met debut on January 27 in the title role and sings the following five performances through February 12. Piotr Beczala, whose performances as Edgardo in Lucia di Lammermoor last fall drew wide acclaim, sings the Duke on February 12. A second run of performances begins April 1 and features the first Met Gilda of Diana Damrau, who earlier this season created a sensation with her interpretation of the title role of Lucia di Lammermoor. She will be partnered with Joseph Calleja as the Duke and Roberto Frontali as Rigoletto. Frontali returns for the April performances which run through April 17. Tamara Mumford sings Maddalena and Raymond Aceto is Sparafucile in the April cast. About the performers
Making Connections Series Announces Next Five Sessions
by Gabrielle Sierra - January 16, 2009
OPERA America, the national service organization for opera, announces the next five sessions of its ongoing Making Connections series, a professional development and networking program nurturing the next generation of performing and creative artists. Making Connections is geared toward early-career artists, including singers, composers, librettists, designers, directors and others who work in or would like to work in the field of opera. During the course of the full 2008-2009 Making Connections season, which runs from September through May, OPERA America will present a total of 18 different sessions. Each begins with an hour-long panel discussion followed by an informal reception where attendees have the opportunity to meet one-on-one with the panelists, providing a unique networking opportunity. 'One of the most exciting aspects of Making Connections is this direct exchange between the participants,' stated Marc A. Scorca, president & CEO of OPERA America. 'In the increasingly competitive arts community, often it's not only what you know, but who you know that can make a difference. Through Making Connections, OPERA America is able to foster a real dialogue between aspiring artists and decision-makers in the opera community.'
by Gabrielle Sierra - January 16, 2009
OPERA America, the national service organization for opera, announces the next five sessions of its ongoing Making Connections series, a professional development and networking program nurturing the next generation of performing and creative artists. Making Connections is geared toward early-career artists, including singers, composers, librettists, designers, directors and others who work in or would like to work in the field of opera. During the course of the full 2008-2009 Making Connections season, which runs from September through May, OPERA America will present a total of 18 different sessions. Each begins with an hour-long panel discussion followed by an informal reception where attendees have the opportunity to meet one-on-one with the panelists, providing a unique networking opportunity. 'One of the most exciting aspects of Making Connections is this direct exchange between the participants,' stated Marc A. Scorca, president & CEO of OPERA America. 'In the increasingly competitive arts community, often it's not only what you know, but who you know that can make a difference. Through Making Connections, OPERA America is able to foster a real dialogue between aspiring artists and decision-makers in the opera community.'
New York City Opera Appoints George Steel As General Manager and Artistic Director
by BWW News Desk - January 14, 2009
The Board of Directors of New York City Opera has announced the appointment of George Steel as the company's new General Manager and Artistic Director. Mr. Steel is expected to assume his responsibilities as of February 1, 2009.
by BWW News Desk - January 14, 2009
The Board of Directors of New York City Opera has announced the appointment of George Steel as the company's new General Manager and Artistic Director. Mr. Steel is expected to assume his responsibilities as of February 1, 2009.
Chavez Steps In For Blyth As Orfeo In ORFEO ED EURIDICE 1/14
by Gabrielle Sierra - January 14, 2009
Kirsten Ch?vez will sing the role of Orfeo in Gluck's Orfeo ed Euridice at the Met on January 14, replacing Stephanie Blythe, who is ill. Ch?vez was a winner of the 1999 Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions and made her company debut in 2005 as Merc?d?s in Carmen. At the Met, she has also appeared as Sondra Finchley in Tobias Picker's An American Tragedy and as Bersi in Andrea Ch?nier. She has sung with numerous companies both in the U.S. and abroad including New York City Opera, Santa Fe Opera, San Diego Opera, Opera Australia, the Caramoor Festival, and opera houses in Philadelphia, Graz, Hannover, and Tokyo.
by Gabrielle Sierra - January 14, 2009
Kirsten Ch?vez will sing the role of Orfeo in Gluck's Orfeo ed Euridice at the Met on January 14, replacing Stephanie Blythe, who is ill. Ch?vez was a winner of the 1999 Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions and made her company debut in 2005 as Merc?d?s in Carmen. At the Met, she has also appeared as Sondra Finchley in Tobias Picker's An American Tragedy and as Bersi in Andrea Ch?nier. She has sung with numerous companies both in the U.S. and abroad including New York City Opera, Santa Fe Opera, San Diego Opera, Opera Australia, the Caramoor Festival, and opera houses in Philadelphia, Graz, Hannover, and Tokyo.
Chavez Fills In For Ailing Blythe For Gluck's Orfeo ed Euridice 'Orfeo' at MET 1/14
by Eddie Varley - January 13, 2009
Kirsten Chavez will sing the role of Orfeo in Gluck's Orfeo ed Euridice at the Met on January 14, replacing Stephanie Blythe, who is ill.
by Eddie Varley - January 13, 2009
Kirsten Chavez will sing the role of Orfeo in Gluck's Orfeo ed Euridice at the Met on January 14, replacing Stephanie Blythe, who is ill.
Maureen O'Flynn Replaces Angela Gheorghiu In La Rondine 1/13
by Gabrielle Sierra - January 13, 2009
Maureen O'Flynn will sing the role of Magda, replacing Angela Gheorghiu who is ill, at this evening's performance of Puccini's La Rondine. O'Flynn made her Met debut in 1998 as Juliette in Gounod's Rom?o et Juliette, a role she repeated in 2005, substituting at the last moment for an ailing colleague at the premiere of a new production. She has also sung Gilda in Rigoletto, Micaela in Carmen, and Violetta in La Traviata at the Met. The American soprano has performed at La Scala, the Hamburg State Opera, Berlin State Opera, and many other opera companies and orchestras both here and abroad.
by Gabrielle Sierra - January 13, 2009
Maureen O'Flynn will sing the role of Magda, replacing Angela Gheorghiu who is ill, at this evening's performance of Puccini's La Rondine. O'Flynn made her Met debut in 1998 as Juliette in Gounod's Rom?o et Juliette, a role she repeated in 2005, substituting at the last moment for an ailing colleague at the premiere of a new production. She has also sung Gilda in Rigoletto, Micaela in Carmen, and Violetta in La Traviata at the Met. The American soprano has performed at La Scala, the Hamburg State Opera, Berlin State Opera, and many other opera companies and orchestras both here and abroad.
Gotham Chamber Opera Presents L'ISOLA DISABITATA
by Gabrielle Sierra - January 12, 2009
In February of 2009, in honor of the bicentennial of Joseph Haydn's death, Gotham Chamber Opera will present the New York City stage premiere of L'isola disabitata (Desert Island) in a new production staged by Mark Morris at the Gerald W. Lynch Theater at John Jay College.
by Gabrielle Sierra - January 12, 2009
In February of 2009, in honor of the bicentennial of Joseph Haydn's death, Gotham Chamber Opera will present the New York City stage premiere of L'isola disabitata (Desert Island) in a new production staged by Mark Morris at the Gerald W. Lynch Theater at John Jay College.
Kaufman Center Presents VOICES OF THE JEWISH DIASPORA
by Gabrielle Sierra - January 12, 2009
Kaufman Center and New York Festival of Song (NYFOS, www.nyfos.org), will present Voices of the Jewish Diaspora on Tuesday and Thursday, February 10 and 12, at 8 PM at Merkin Concert Hall at Kaufman Center. It is the third subscription program this season for the New York Festival of Song, whose 2008 CD Spanish Love Songs, featuring Lorraine Hunt Lieberson, Joseph Kaiser, Steven Blier and Michael Barrett (Bridge Records) was named one of the 'Best Of the Year' by Opera News. The program features songs in many languages celebrating the culturally diverse Jewish communities that flourished as the tribes of Israel spread out across the globe: Sephardic melodies arranged by Roberto Sierra; Second Avenue specialties by Irving Berlin and Abraham Ellstein; art songs by Ravel and Mahler; plus music by Gershwin, Bernstein, and Harold Rome.
by Gabrielle Sierra - January 12, 2009
Kaufman Center and New York Festival of Song (NYFOS, www.nyfos.org), will present Voices of the Jewish Diaspora on Tuesday and Thursday, February 10 and 12, at 8 PM at Merkin Concert Hall at Kaufman Center. It is the third subscription program this season for the New York Festival of Song, whose 2008 CD Spanish Love Songs, featuring Lorraine Hunt Lieberson, Joseph Kaiser, Steven Blier and Michael Barrett (Bridge Records) was named one of the 'Best Of the Year' by Opera News. The program features songs in many languages celebrating the culturally diverse Jewish communities that flourished as the tribes of Israel spread out across the globe: Sephardic melodies arranged by Roberto Sierra; Second Avenue specialties by Irving Berlin and Abraham Ellstein; art songs by Ravel and Mahler; plus music by Gershwin, Bernstein, and Harold Rome.
Caroline Worra Stars In Arvo Part's L'abbe Agathon 1/11,1/12
by BWW News Desk - January 11, 2009
Grammy-nominated soprano Caroline Worra takes over singing duties in Estonian composer Arvo P?rt's L'abb? Agathon - the world premiere operatic version this weekend at the Guggenheim Museum's Peter B. Lewis Theatre on Sunday, January 11 and Monday, January 12, 2009 at 7:30 PM. L'Abb? Agathon will be re-imagined by French visual artist Sophie Calle, with a film installation by Ms. Calle.
by BWW News Desk - January 11, 2009
Grammy-nominated soprano Caroline Worra takes over singing duties in Estonian composer Arvo P?rt's L'abb? Agathon - the world premiere operatic version this weekend at the Guggenheim Museum's Peter B. Lewis Theatre on Sunday, January 11 and Monday, January 12, 2009 at 7:30 PM. L'Abb? Agathon will be re-imagined by French visual artist Sophie Calle, with a film installation by Ms. Calle.
Caroline Worra Stars In Arvo Part's L'abbe Agathon 1/11,1/12
by Gabrielle Sierra - January 09, 2009
Grammy-nominated soprano Caroline Worra takes over singing duties in Estonian composer Arvo P?rt's L'abb? Agathon - the world premiere operatic version this weekend at the Guggenheim Museum's Peter B. Lewis Theatre on Sunday, January 11 and Monday, January 12, 2009 at 7:30 PM. L'Abb? Agathon will be re-imagined by French visual artist Sophie Calle, with a film installation by Ms. Calle.
by Gabrielle Sierra - January 09, 2009
Grammy-nominated soprano Caroline Worra takes over singing duties in Estonian composer Arvo P?rt's L'abb? Agathon - the world premiere operatic version this weekend at the Guggenheim Museum's Peter B. Lewis Theatre on Sunday, January 11 and Monday, January 12, 2009 at 7:30 PM. L'Abb? Agathon will be re-imagined by French visual artist Sophie Calle, with a film installation by Ms. Calle.
Photo Coverage: DICAPO OPERA Celebrates Puccini's 150th Birthday
by Linda Lenzi - January 08, 2009
The Dicapo Opera Theatre presented a glittering all Puccini program to celebrate the composer's 150th birthday at Lincoln Center's Rose Theater. The program featured arias and scenes from all of Puccini's operas- from LeVilli through the last music he composed and orchestrated for Turandot- including the Opening Act II of Edgar, and selections from both the Brescia and La Scala versions of Madama Butterfly.
by Linda Lenzi - January 08, 2009
The Dicapo Opera Theatre presented a glittering all Puccini program to celebrate the composer's 150th birthday at Lincoln Center's Rose Theater. The program featured arias and scenes from all of Puccini's operas- from LeVilli through the last music he composed and orchestrated for Turandot- including the Opening Act II of Edgar, and selections from both the Brescia and La Scala versions of Madama Butterfly.
Reprise Theater Company Presents 'MAN OF LA MANCHA'
by Gabrielle Sierra - January 07, 2009
The 2008-2009 Reprise Theatre Company season continues with the classic international hit 'Man of La Mancha,' starring Brent Spiner as Cervantes/Quixote. Julia Migenes, the renowned opera and theatre performer, will play Aldonza/Dulcinea; Valerie Perri will play the role of Aldonza/Dulcinea at matinee performances; and Tony nominee Lee Wilkof will play Sancho Panza.
by Gabrielle Sierra - January 07, 2009
The 2008-2009 Reprise Theatre Company season continues with the classic international hit 'Man of La Mancha,' starring Brent Spiner as Cervantes/Quixote. Julia Migenes, the renowned opera and theatre performer, will play Aldonza/Dulcinea; Valerie Perri will play the role of Aldonza/Dulcinea at matinee performances; and Tony nominee Lee Wilkof will play Sancho Panza.
Blythe Sings Gluck's Orfeo ed Euridice 'Orfeo' at MET
by Gabrielle Sierra - January 07, 2009
Director-choreographer Mark Morris's much-lauded 2007 production of Gluck's Orfeo ed Euridice returns to the repertoire, with Stephanie Blythe taking on one of the pinnacles of the mezzo-soprano repertory, the role of Orfeo, for the first time in her career. Soprano Danielle de Niese, an acclaimed singer of eighteenth-century music and a graduate of the Met's Lindemann Young Artist Development Program, sings Euridice for the first time at the Met. Heidi Grant Murphy returns as Amor, which she performed at the production's premiere in 2007.
by Gabrielle Sierra - January 07, 2009
Director-choreographer Mark Morris's much-lauded 2007 production of Gluck's Orfeo ed Euridice returns to the repertoire, with Stephanie Blythe taking on one of the pinnacles of the mezzo-soprano repertory, the role of Orfeo, for the first time in her career. Soprano Danielle de Niese, an acclaimed singer of eighteenth-century music and a graduate of the Met's Lindemann Young Artist Development Program, sings Euridice for the first time at the Met. Heidi Grant Murphy returns as Amor, which she performed at the production's premiere in 2007.
MOSES AND ARRON Concludes Opera Matters Program On 1/25
by Reynard Loki - January 06, 2009
Cinematic Opera/Operatic Cinema: Reflections on the Merging of Media, a collaboration between New York City Opera and the Film Society of Lincoln Center that is part of City Opera's Opera Matters program, will be concluded on January 25th with screening of Moses and Aaron.
by Reynard Loki - January 06, 2009
Cinematic Opera/Operatic Cinema: Reflections on the Merging of Media, a collaboration between New York City Opera and the Film Society of Lincoln Center that is part of City Opera's Opera Matters program, will be concluded on January 25th with screening of Moses and Aaron.
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