Performance Reviews

Reviews of operatic, vocal, and classical performances at the Metropolitan Opera, Carnegie Hall, all across America, and around the world.

Discomfort zone Discomfort zone

Roberto Alagna’s physical and vocal embodiment of Don José lent his particular narrative a complication I hadn’t anticipated.

Knock on wood Knock on wood

Cellist Leah Coloff’s one-woman cabaret act ThisTree finds its place among a lineup of Prototype Festival miniatures this week that seem to plumb the depths of womanly distress.

Neigh sayers: Frightening the Horses Neigh sayers: Frightening the Horses

At tonight’s performance of Aida at the Met, the Triumphal Scene horses suddenly panicked and tried to bolt from the stage. I can’t say I blame them.

Borderlines Borderlines

While 4.48 Psychosis is an intricately-crafted, deeply moving portrait of human agony, Pancho Villa from a Safe Distance lacks the creative clout to realize its artistic ambitions.

La vie de broham La vie de broham

Imagine the good fortune of attending La Bohème with someone who’s never seen it!