By La Cieca 
The spectacular dramatic soprano was born 74 years ago today in Pontnewynydd, Wales. She is seen below in one of her less familiar (though no less effective) roles, Hanna in Die Lustige Witwe.
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=77Znmvr0sGE
And here, in a much more familiar role, Elektra:
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z7WauCdyli8
The cher public are invited to share further YouTube clips and memories of Dame Gwyneth.
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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