gelb gives up “ghosts”

Official word from the Met concerning rumored cutbacks in next season is that Ghosts of Versailles is to be replaced with a revival of Traviata, rolling over Angela Gheorghiu and Thomas Hampson. No word on what happens to Kristen Chenoweth, but Peter Gelb promises that the new productions are going ahead as scheduled. [via NYT]
“Millo says it is not a profession but a vocation to be a singer.” Is that an excuse for being unprofessional?
Dalibor, be careful The fanatics of SHE WHO MAY NOT BE CRITICIZED have placed WANTED signs up in the men’s room of the MET with your picture on it for bashing their diety
A number of sources are now reporting that “Lady Macbeth of Mtsensk” has been officially given the axe, next season at The MET….
If that is true, is there any word as to whether Nina Stemme will be rolled over to another opera? Of the ones currently in the repertoire for 2008-2009, she sings Aida, The Marschallin and Senta. Aida is already double-cast (Urmana and Papian) and she’s already sung Senta at the Met. Any chance she could alternate Rosenkavalier with Renee?