Bizet’s “Carmen” is one of the great operas of all time and one of the few to really have a massive impact on popular culture. The opera, which premiered back on March 3, 1875, was a failure upon premiering with Bizet never actually getting a chance to experience the success of his masterwork. Since then the opera, which was adapted {…}
On Feb. 27, Verdi’s revised version of “La Forza del Destino” premiered at La Scala in 1869. The version included a number of changes, including a completely different ending and adjustments to a few duets. The result was a shorter opera that was hailed by critics as one of Verdi’s late masterpieces. Throughout history the opera has been a vehicle {…}
Last year was arguably Ryan Speedo Green’s biggest year as he broke out in the operatic world with his showstopping aria “Vecchia Zimarra” in Puccini’s “La Bohème” at the Metropolitan Opera. The bass made the most out his two minute aria and critics said that he was the most memorable performance of the night. A star was essentially born. This {…}
Born on Feb. 25, 1873, Enrico Caruso was arguably the most important opera singer in the entire history of the art form. Maybe only Maria Callas rivals him in putting the art form into the collective consciousness of 20th century audiences. Caruso, who was beloved for his simple nature and brilliant voice, was a man capable of selling out any {…}
It’s Oscar Sunday this weekend and while it may seem irrelevant to the world of opera, the art form has been present numerous times at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. In celebration of the Academy Awards, OperaWire takes a look at times when opera stars or films were nominated at the Academy Awards. 2016 Last awards season {…}
Renata Scotto needs no introduction. She is one of the greatest singers of the 20th century and she conquered many of the prima donna roles. On Feb. 24, Scotto will be 83 and at her age the Diva still continues to teach and give masterclasses as evidenced last month at the Opera Naples. In celebration of Scotto’s birthday, OperaWire looks {…}
Rolando Villazón turns 45 on Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2017. The Mexican tenor has managed a strong career over the past decade, conquering numerous struggles and paving new ways that have allowed him to remain at the forefront of opera’s diversification and development. He has reshaped his repertoire to suit his vocal and dramatic abilities, but today we recognize him for {…}
Opera is laden with historical figures of the past, many often showcased in a mythological light. The same goes for American Presidents, which have been given the operatic treatment on several occasions. As we celebrate Presidents Day in the United States, here is a look at which of our leaders have been showcased in operas. Third US President Thomas Jefferson {…}
John Holiday is one of the most promising countertenors of his generation. Holiday’s star is rising and this week he will once again have a chance to prove it at the Bruce R. Foote Foundation Concert. The tenor, who is a recipient of the Bruce R. Foote award, will perform a concert that will show his talent in distinct repertoire, which {…}
