Let’s be clear. This weekend is not one generally associated with opera in the US or North America at large. With Christmas just a few days away, most companies are not keen on risking small audiences simply because most of their greatest supporters are away with family or other activities. So for the first time in weeks, there will be {…}
On Dec. 18, the Metropolitan Opera will open its production of “Hansel and Gretel.” The current production, directed by Richard Jones, made its debut in 2007, and will now get its 32nd performance. Here are some fun facts about the upcoming production and what fans can expect from these seven showcases of “Hansel and Gretel.” New Production When the work {…}
The Hungarian State Opera has announced its final opera of 2017. The company will showcase Humperdink’s “Hansel and Gretel” in a new production directed by Rafael R. Villalobos, winner of Opera Europa’s directing competition in Graz. The holiday favorite promises to be suitable for both adults and children as intended in the new production. The opera will be conducted by acclaimed János {…}
“To see the elephants. The lights. The action. I was sold. I didn’t understand why I had to go to school because I knew what I wanted right away. I thought it was the most amazing magical night ever.” That was mezzo-soprano Tara Erraught’s description of her first ever experience at the Arena di Verona as a 13-year-old. The Dundalk, {…}
The start of the Met seasons is always an exciting time. A new production of a major classic to kick off the year, followed, usually, by a slew of other classic productions. Usually, we also get a new star making a prominent debut, as is the case with mezzo-soprano Tara Erraught, who is coming to the Met as Nicklausse in {…}
Diana Damrau revealed that one of her dream roles is the Witch in “Hansel and Gretel.” During a Facebook live at the Metropolitan Opera, the soprano was asked about one role she dreams of singing. While she did not divulge any of the operas currently planned through 2020, Damrau did state that the last role she wants to sing is {…}
Some people actually have an interest in attending the opera but struggle with understanding where to begin. They might be afraid that all of those “clichés” they have heard might come true and disappoint them in the biggest of ways. Many people simply don’t know that there is opera for everyone and that the right experience can be a lasting {…}
Amore Opera is back in full swing as the company puts out two productions to close out the year. The company will bring back Strauss’ “Die Fledermaus” on Dec. 27 through Jan. 1, 2017 after presenting the work on Dec. 17 and 18. The new run of performances will start at 7:30 p.m. EST every single day of the week {…}
Christmas weekend presents a quandary for major opera companies as attendance hits a snag for a few days as people stay home and spend time with families. Despite that, there is one company that is braving the circumstances and keeping those opera lovers satisfied with performances through the holiday. The Metropolitan Opera will showcase its production of The Magic Flute {…}
The holidays are upon us and most will be together to celebrate them. There will a lot of downtime and this will give families a chance to catch up on movies or simply relax and listen to some great music. For families interested in enjoying an opera together, the following is a list of works that family and holiday friendly {…}