Tag

Contemporary Opera

All articles tagged with #contemporary opera

arts-and-culture2 years ago

Met Season Kicks Off with Bold New Production: 'Dead Man Walking' Review

The Metropolitan Opera opens its season with the contemporary opera "Dead Man Walking," signaling a shift towards staging more contemporary works. The opera, based on a best-selling book and award-winning film, tells the story of a man on death row and a Catholic nun who serves as his spiritual advisor. While the production features charismatic stars and lavish playing from the orchestra, the opera falls short of riveting drama or tight conflict, with scenes that often overstay their welcome. The Met's pivot towards contemporary operas reflects a broader effort to attract audiences and address financial challenges faced by the institution.

arts-and-culture2 years ago

The Met's Contemporary Opera Gamble

The Metropolitan Opera plans to stage 17 new and recent works over the next five seasons, including seven commissions, as it bets big on operas by living composers. The focus on contemporary opera is a shift, as it has been outselling the classics since the company returned from its pandemic shutdown in fall 2021. The Met's leaders, Peter Gelb and Yannick Nézet-Séguin, discuss their plans for the company's future, including finding the right balance between contemporary and classic works, and the importance of having the music director heavily involved in new operas.