There is only one more performance remaining of "Die Zauberflote" and for this writer is a definite must see. The performances are all top notch, the production is easily one of the finest that company has to offer and the opera itself is one of the most enduring and endearing works in the entire canon (not to mention that there is nothing like listening to it in the original German). The Met's 2014-15 season has already presented a number of unforgettable performances. This "Zauberflote" is surely on that list.
So what did this pandemonium over "The Death of Klinghoffer" actually achieve? The Metropolitan Opera got more publicity from these protests. The protestors got to say their bit. The politicians even got some new supporters. But when all is said and done, the protests that Adams' masterpiece unintentionally created actually achieved something beautiful.
Opera performer Anna Netrebko talks with Latin Post.com on her recent success as Lady Macbeth and on her upcoming Iolanta, Manon Lescaut and Anna Bolena
There was solid singing and lush orchestral playing on display in this Met "Boheme." But unfortunately there was little else. Those familiar with the work at the famed opera house might be a bit underwhelmed, but those getting to know the work for the first time will still find enough to enjoy.
Over the last few seasons, the Met Opera has treated its audiences to voice recitals with such top artists as Jonas Kaufmann and Vittorio Grigolo. On Sunday, September 28, German bass Rene Pape got his opportunity to shine in the intimate setting. He selected a program that included works of Ludwig van Beethoven, Antonin Dvorak, Roger Quilter and Modest Mussorsky.
Perfection is non-existent. But every once in a while, something comes extremely close to it. That is exactly what happened on the opening performance of this "Macbeth." While the season has just begun, it is fair to say that this is surely going to be one of the best revivals of the season and one that should not be missed.
Despite the protests, which will undoubtedly leave their imprint on the collective conscience, art has won in the end. This "Nozze di Figaro" is a theatrical triumph and the cast that has been assembled is as good as any that one could ask for.
On Aug. 9, the Salzburg Festival will present the highly anticipated new production of Verdi's "Il Trovatore" starring world-renowned Spanish singer, conductor and tenor Placido Domingo.
While the Metropolitan Opera season is over and opera will not return to New York until next season, the Latin America opera singers will still tour the world in a number of anticipated productions and premieres this summer.
On Friday April 25, Javier Camarena surprised audiences at the Metropolitan Opera with an encore during the performance of "La Cenerentola." Interestingly enough he made history becoming the third tenor in the past 70 years of the Met to do so.
Mezzo-Soprano Carla Dirlikov talks to Latin Post about her experience as a Cultural Envoy for the US State Department as well as the responsibility she feels after being awarded the SPHINX Medal of Excellence.
