“Short as Roman emperor Eliogabalo’s reign was, the world sighed in relief when it was over. I felt the same way about Gotham Chamber Opera’s performance Friday of Francesco Cavalli’s Eliogabalo. It was a shocker in exactly the wrong sense—an inept presentation from a company with a reputation for wit and refinement.” [New York Post]
Emperor of the perverse
Short as Roman emperor Eliogabalo’s reign was, the world sighed in relief when it was over.
By La Cieca 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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