Marina Rebeka came on the scene at the Met as an irresistible Donna Anna in Don Giovanni, but here she has showcased another wondrous aspect as the tragic heroine in Verdi's unforgettable masterpiece. Flanked by the multi-faceted turn by Quinn Kelsey and Willy Decker's ever-fascinating production, this is a must-see of the Metropolitan's 2014-15 season.
Richard Eyre's production showed it staying power and furthered the notion that the director favored his actors over any model concept. The world of his Figaro came alive thanks to its tremendous cast and solid conductor. There is one more performance of this great masterpiece before it is completely finished for the 2014-15 season.
"Die Meistersinger von Nurnberg" is a tricky opera in many respects. While filled with comic touches, it is a lengthy work whose main character is a tragic figure. But led by the legendary Levine and Morris, the other terrific cast members and Schenk's ever-new production, the work's terrific balance comes to the fore in a manner that is enthralling, entertaining and emotionally transcendent.
Overall this "Boheme" showed just how powerful this opera and production could still be despite its regular presentation. Yoncheva and DeMuro are two stars in the making while the remaining cast members all bring brilliant artistic qualities to make this a complete performance.
Isabel Leonard, a major opera star of Argentinean decent at the Metropolitan Opera and a former winner of the prestigious Richard Tucker Award, recently spoke with Latin Post.com regarding her experiences this year at the Met, as well as her upcoming projects.
Soprano Corinne Winters talks to Latin Post about her new album and her upcoming engagements. Recording an album in studio is becoming an increasing rarity for many classical musicians.
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.
Anna Netrebko has cancelled the highly-anticipated production in Munich of Puccini's "Manon Lescaut" and the news has caused a domino effect in the opera world.
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.
As Google Glass continues to fascinate the world with its novelty, a faltering institution has decided to employ the device to expand its reach and perhaps reignite interest in its ancient tones.
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.
