As long-time parterrians may recall, that gala Tosca was to star Kristine Opolais, Jonas Kaufmann and Bryn Terfel, none of whom in the event showed up. Well, now the tantalizing trio have reassembled, or I suppose I should say assembled for the first time, for a semi-staging of the Puccini warhorse at the Graz Schloßbergbühne Kasematten on August 22.

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.

Comments