The Bayreuth Festival has decided to walk away from Jonathan Meese, canceling his production of Parsifal scheduled for 2016. The reason given for Meese’s ouster was an out-of-control budget, at last reckoning something more than €4 million. Andris Nelsons is still on board to conduct. [Die Welt]

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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