futralIt’s official: Elizabeth Futral will sing the role of Ophélie in Washington National Opera’s production of Hamlet, replacing Diana Damrau who, according to the company’s press release,  “is pregnant with her first child [and] has been advised by her doctors to avoid strenuous activity and air travel, thus preventing her from being in Washington.”

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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