Happy 78th birthday soprano Judith Blegen.
On this day in 1996 the 25th Anniversary Gala for conductor James Levine took place at the Met.
On this day in 1867 Gounod’s Roméo et Juliette premiered in Paris. On this day in 1877 Massenet’s Le Roi de Lahore premiered in Paris.

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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