La Cieca (not pictured) is actively searching now for a weekly audio or video feature to permanently replace the defunct “Montag Mit Marianne.” (If you are interested in creating such a feature, member of the cher public, your doyenne encourages you to contact her privately.) In the meantime, she hopes you will enjoy highlights from the classic “Unnatural Acts of Opera” archive such as today’s offering. 

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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