As we wrap up 2024, here is a look back at some of the most-read articles of 2023. We will focus mainly on longer-form pieces like reviews and interviews for this article. Top 10 Most-Read Reviews of 2024 Metropolitan Opera Review of “Carmen“ Metropolitan Opera Review of “La Forza del Destino“ Metropolitan Opera Review of “Les Contes d’Hoffmann” Metropolitan Opera {…}
(Credit: Ken Howard / Met Opera) This week, the Metropolitan Opera will premiere a new production of Verdi’s “Aida” after 36 years. Michael Mayer’s new production will replace Sonja Frisell’s legendary production and with it, the Met has lined up one of the most anticipated Aida’s of her generation, Angel Blue. Over the past seasons, the Met has been preparing {…}
Photo Credit: Hindemith Foundation/Blonay, Switzerland Christmas is a time of celebration for many people for many different reasons. Whether someone is religious or not, the Holiday season is a great time to connect with many of classical music’s absolute seasonal favorites like Tchaikovsky’s beloved ballet, ‘The Nutcracker,’ Menotti’s ‘Amahl and the Night Visitors,’ and Handel’s ‘Messiah.’ It is also, however, {…}
The idea that opera is a controversial influence on society is not a new idea per se. Beginning in the early 17th century, the idea of “opera” in its formal meaning began to spread, and by the end of the next century, it had become a seminal part of cosmopolitan life in Baroque (then Classical) Europe. That being said, during the {…}
There’s been a lot of opera in 2024. And quite frankly, there’s been a lot of good opera. So as has become our tradition, here is a look at some of OperaWire’s editorial team’s picks for their personal favorite performances of 2024. Matt Costello: Act three of “Götterdämmerung” – Tanglewood It’s always a tricky thing to think about one’s “Performance {…}
(Credit: Grand Théâtre de Genève) This week the Grand Théâtre de Genève is set to open a new production of Giordano’s “Fedora,” a rarely performed work that has become a showcase for a star soprano in recent years. This week Aleksandra Kurzak will sing her first Fedora, adding yet another demanding role to her growing diverse repertoire. Over the past {…}
This week the Teatro alla Scala opens its 2024-25 season with “La Forza del Destino.” The Dec. 7 opening is considered one of the most important evenings in opera as the opera will be streamed and broadcast live around the world and will feature some of the most important opera stars currently performing. It will also include a rising star, {…}
(Credit: Brescia – Amisano © Teatro alla Scala) The “Prima della Scala” is more than just an opera performance; it’s a quintessential Italian event that intertwines art, history, and tradition, captivating global audiences every December 7th. This year, Teatro alla Scala inaugurates its 2024/2025 season with Verdi’s “La Forza del Destino.” Here are five essential insights to help you fully {…}
This week La Monnaie/De Mont is set to open the world premiere of Fanny and Alexander. The work is based on Oscar-winning film “Fanny och Alexander” from 1982. The work will include a commanding cast of 16 soloists many of them veterans and some newcomers. Among them are Anne Sofie von Otter. Over the years, Von Otter has evolved her {…}
