Tarare is simply one of the most important operas of the Classic era, precisely because it challenges so many aspects of Classic-era “normality.” You won’t believe your ears.
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Opera Review: BEMF’s “La storia di Orfeo” — A Musical Triumph
I do not know how BEMF will ever top this. Bravo tutti!
Book Review: “Life Isn’t Everything: Mike Nichols, as remembered by 150 of his Closest Friends” — A Frothy, Gossip-filled Bauble
If you are a fan of Mike Nichols’ large and elegant body of work, you’ll regret as I did that the authors did not take the time to create the kind of book he deserved.
Opera Review: Ready for a Very Different “Faust”? You Should Be!
Even taking into consideration my several objections, this Faust is one of the most accomplished and intriguing opera releases of recent years.
Film Review: “A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood” — Life Lessons, Nostalgia, Sweetness
There are few films these days that feel like such a familiar and sorely-needed balm for stressful times.
Opera Review: Pauline Viardot’s and Ivan Turgenev’s First-Rate Fairy Opera Rediscovered
Colorful, characterful, and full of worldly wisdom, The Last Sorcerer—by a skilled and imaginative composer, to a text by the great Russian novelist— receives a superb world-premiere recording, with Met mezzo Jamie Barton and bass-baritone Eric Owens.
Theater Review: A Three-Hour “Bright Room Called Day” Befuddles at the Public Theater
Tony Kushner attempts a re-write of his first professional play. The results are decidedly mixed.
Music Feature: The Tedeschi Trucks Band — Home for the Holidays
The Tedeschi Trucks Band is capping another remarkable year of transition and growth, some of it spurred by tragedy.
Coming Attractions: December 1 through 15 — What Will Light Your Fire
Arts Fuse critics select the best in film, dance, visual art, theater, music, and author events for the coming weeks.
Theater Review: Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express” — Neither Noir nor Romp
Ken Ludwig’s stage version of Murder on the Orient Express is an enjoyable diversion.
