Doyenne of operatic tradition Montserrat Caballé offers her opinions on the art of her compatriot Calixto Bieito. (And what a very fair and balanced attitude the lady has!)

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And La Cieca herself heard from an old. old, old friend who has sung a leading role in one of Bieito’s new productions:

Calixto was a puppy dog to work with. If you saw his show, you would think “I would never do such a thing” or “what kind of person would envision such things.”  But when he asks you to “just try” x y or z, it is impossible to resist. Total sweetheart…. Real mensch.

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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