La Cieca’s old, old, old friend Dorothy Bishop returns to NYC with a revamped version of her opera/cabaret show “Viva la Diva” at Splash Bar on October 15 at 8:00 pm. As always, our own JJ directs the show. Dorothy’s Splash debut features new material, new costumes, new “Viva la Diva” dancing boys and (perhaps even more appealing to the readers of parterre.com) a no cover charge, 2-for-1 drinks policy. To book a table, email [email protected].

On Monday, October 13th, at 11:30pm Dorothy will share the stage at Splash with the Boys of the San Francisco Ballet, directly following the video madness of “Musical Mondays.” The San Francisco Ballet, who are currently in town performing at City Center, offer clips from the Company’s recent production of the West Side Story Suite, and will help you win free tickets and giveaways. The evening is hosted by Scott Nevins. Seating is first come first serve.

In other JJ-related news, Our Own publisher speaks to Brian Wise about “Finding Opera in New York” among the city’s smaller companies. [WNYC]

La Cieca

James Jorden (who wrote under the names "La Cieca" and "Our Own JJ") was the founder and editor of parterre box. During his 20 year career as an opera critic he wrote for the New York Times, Opera, Gay City News, Opera Now, Musical America and the New York Post. He also raised his voice in punditry on National Public Radio. From time to time he directed opera, including three unsuccessful productions of Don Giovanni. He also contributed a regular column on opera for the New York Observer. James died in October 2023.

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