Celebrated fact-mangler Norman Lebrecht is at it again. Did you know that the Metropolitan Opera has in its repertoire a production of Der Rosenkavalier directed by Jonathan Miller?

This interview includes a statement by Dr. Miller insisting his current La boheme (inspired by “the photo­graphic world of Brassaï, Cartier-Bresson and Kertezsz,” dontcha know) will be the last opera he ever, ever directs.  Again, no surprises here, since the good doctor has been stuttering that same idle threat since approximately the era of the bell-bottom.

Speaking of the Swinging Sixties, here’s a reminder of what Dr. Miller is supposed to be famous for, and a remembrance of the last time he had anything remotely interesting to say. (Alas, no such clip exists for Mr. Lebrecht.)

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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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