differences
A brace of profiles in the March issue of Opera News engage the reader in a fascinating game of “the same, but different.” Simon Keenlyside and Paulo Szot are both baritones; both handsome, sexy men; and they’re both adept in classical and more modern musical theater forms. Both gentlemen are starring in new productions at the Met this spring, too. So… what is it that sets these two fellows apart? 

Mr. Keenlyside, we learn, is “a family man now, having married Royal Ballet principal dancer Zenaida Yanowsky in 2006.  Their son turned one year old last fall, and another child is on the way.”

Alas, poor Mr. Szot has never had any sort of personal relationship in his entire life — or at least none that the overwhelmingly homosexual Opera News editorial staff deems acceptable enough to mention.

No, don’t bother to check your calendar. It’s 2010.

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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