Since no doubt the New York contingent of the cher public are already shuddering in anticipation of a Kristine Opolais Tosca as a “gala” New Year’s Eve treat, La Cieca thought you might enjoy—again, surely too strong a word—a preview of sorts.

Understand, of course, that at the Met La Opolais will not even have the advantage of a mildly Eurotrashy production to showcase her acting skills; rather, she will be drabbed down to fit the passive-aggressive conservatism of Dame David McVicar‘s Restoration of the Maria Carolina Zeffirelli staging.

Photo by Monika Rittershaus

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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