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.
It is with a heavy heart that La Cieca predicts the demise of New York City Opera.
The astonishing performance of Aleksandra Kurzak, whose Violetta was an incontrovertible triumph, fascinated parterre box readers in the month of January.
One last trip to Catfish Row (for now) this afternoon.
Bryn Terfel has just canceled his appearance in the Met’s new production of Der Fliegende Holländer.
Join the parterriani for what promises to be a legendary performance of Berlioz’s “légende dramatique.”
Born on this day in 1882 actress Mary Boland.
A scene from Les Contes d’Hoffmann with Michael Fabiano, which may or may not be seen soon at L’Opéra national de Paris.
Verdi’s masterpiece returns to the Met tonight.
Musical comedy on a gloomy Saturday afternoon.
The Royal Opera House demonstrates it is “proud to have the values of inclusivity, internationalism and openness at its heart” …
Happy Public Domain Day!
What’s the biggest parterre box story of December 2019? Why, a look into the “Soaring 20s” at the Met!
Cher public, let’s ring in the New Year in the most “Metropolitan Opera” way possible: lots of Puccini and extremely long intermissions!
Get ready for a barrel of charm, a fabulous thrill as La Cieca (not pictured) proudly presents the the biggest little headlines on parterre box for the decade 2010-2019.
From the Bayerische Staatsoper, a telecast of Hans Abrahamsen‘s The Snow Queen featuring Barbara Hannigan.
Of the hundreds of opera performances Our Own JJ (not pictured) attended in the 2010s he narrows it down to the ten most glittering highlights.
The entire Metropolitan Opera schedule for 2020-2021, in what looks like a fairly plausible form, has been leaked.
“A beloved holiday tradition continues.”
Three! Seven! Ace!
The Strauss-Hofmannsthal sex comedy returns to the Met tonight at 7:00.
The Metropolitan Opera today announces two cast changes for its forthcoming production of Verdi’s La Traviata, opening January 10, 2020.
Tell us: What’s your favorite Verdi performance?
Hasten thee to feed another quarter of conversation for The Talk of the Town!
