Category: Metropolitan Opera

For the Met’s New ‘Macbeth,’ a Costume Designer Transforms Historic Ensembles

The New York Times – Fashion & Style:
For two new productions at the Met, a costume designer raided the opera house’s archives, completely transforming decades-old pieces by his idols in the process.
Louisa Proske Switches on the ‘Epic Brain’ to Direct ‘Macbeth’ at the Met

The New York Times – Music:
The rising director Louisa Proske makes her Metropolitan Opera debut with the season-opening “Macbeth,” a large-scale production that came with a ticking timer.
Missy Mazzoli Debuts at the Metropolitan Opera With ‘Lincoln in the Bardo’

The New York Times – Music:
Missy Mazzoli, whose “Lincoln in the Bardo” opens at the Metropolitan Opera this fall, writes politically urgent, musically eclectic works for a new generation of operagoers.
Marian Anderson’s Ambition Was Always Clear: To Be a ‘Fine Artist’

The New York Times – Music:
Anderson’s importance as a barrier breaker in classical music has sometimes overshadowed the power of her artistry.
Review: A Soprano’s Sound Floods the Met in ‘Ariadne’

Lise Davidsen unleashed rare grandeur of tone throughout her range in the title role of Strauss’s opera.
Too Close to Putin? Institutions Vet Artists, Uncomfortably.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has led arts organizations to reconsider who performs, forcing them to confront questions about free speech and policing political views.
After a Punishing Sprint, Yannick Nézet-Séguin Can Celebrate

The Met Opera and Philadelphia Orchestra conductor recently took a break because of exhaustion. Then he found himself in the middle of a performance marathon.
Metropolitan Opera Will Host Concert in Support of Ukraine

“We want Putin to know he is the enemy of artists and that we are united against his horrific actions,” the company’s general manager said.
Cities and States Are Easing Covid Rules. Should the Arts Follow?

Cultural institutions face tough decisions: Is it safe to drop mask and vaccine requirements, and would doing so be more likely to lure audiences back or keep them away?
Despite Drastic Financial Steps, Met Opera Turns to Layoffs and Cuts

The largest performing arts organization in the country will lay off workers, cut salaries and reduce its offerings. It may also sell its Chagall murals that are valued at $55 million.
The World’s Reigning Carmen Breaks Down Her Signature Aria

Aigul Akhmetshina, performing now at the Met, shares her thoughts on what it takes to bring the famous Habanera to life.
Bruce Crawford, Arts-Loving Adman Who Led the Met Opera, Dies at 96

He helped build the ad agency BBDO International into a powerhouse before channeling his passion for opera into managing the Met and revitalizing Lincoln Center.