You have spoken, parterrriani, and your message is loud and clear: Calixto Bieito should be tapped to direct the 2013 Bayreuth production of Der Ring des Nibelungen (seen here in artist’s conception.)

The results of the utterly unscientific parterre poll:  Bieito 22.46%; Katharina Wagner 14.39% ; Stefan Herheim 12.98%.

Strong showings among write-in candidates (in order of popularity) include Franco Zeffirelli, Julie Taymor, David McVicar, Otto Schenk, Achim Freyer, Anthony Stivanello, Catherine Malfitano, Ira Siff, Peter Sellars, Robert Carsen and Woody Allen.

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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