La Scoopenda tries on Vera Galupe-Borszkh‘s mantle of grandezza for an interview with the Philadelphia Inquirer (“I don’t even know where Indiana, Pa., is – but I’m going there soon, for a concert”), describing herself as being from the old school, “especially compared to the young turks running around on the operatic stages in Europe these days, sometimes wearing nothing but their underwear. Opera over there has become quite a youthful pursuit and competitive sport.”

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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