Who would be so benighted as to send a unprepared substitute into the lion’s den of the Met? Not this director, who’s been holding “silent and hidden” rehearsals  with his favorite leading lady for the last three weeks—just in case there’s a “last minute” call to jump in.

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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