Weekend Preview – International (9/1-3): Deutsche Oper Berlin Opens 2017-18 Season While La Scala Goes On Tour

It is a rather quiet weekend as many companies are in rehearsals gearing up for opening nights. However, some companies resume their 2016-17 seasons while others conclude summer festivals and others begin 2017-18 seasons. Here is a look at what to expect. Germany  The Deutsche Oper Berlin kicks off its 2017-18 season with Verdi’s “La Traviata,” starring Ben Bernheim and Salome {…}

Bayerische Staatsoper 2016-17 Review – La Forza Del Destino: Jonas Kaufmann, Anja Harteros Dominate In A Personal Narrative Encapsulated In A Far Larger Context

Verdi’s “La Forza del Destino” has had an uneven performance history despite containing some of the composer’s most memorable music, not least its well-known overture, made famous through concert performances, and the emotionally charged duets that characterize the work. The problem, however, stems not from its music, but from its sprawling structure and the complex tensions that drive the narrative. {…}