Spotlight

Arts Commentary: These Goose Steps Don’t Lie — Shakira in El Salvador and the “New Security” Aesthetic

March 13, 2026
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The artist is a glitzy ribbon that ties together incompatible images—the mega-prison and the megastar.

Arts Commentary: The Nelsons Case

March 10, 2026
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Ultimately—and regardless of one’s take on Andris Nelsons as an artist—it’s hard to see how the institution’s long-term interests are served by last week’s developments.

Theater Commentary: Theater for Young Audiences — What Role Can It Play In Saving Our Democracy?

February 25, 2026
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Meeting today’s challenge—harnessing the performing arts to prepare the next generation to sustain democracy—requires broader collaboration not only with schools and community partners but among TYA companies themselves.

The 20th Annual Francis Davis Jazz Critics Poll: The Institution Continues

January 12, 2026
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Onwards for an invaluable poll from a community of critics that gives us a map to an expansive world of jazz to explore — with hints at terra incognita.

Musician Remembrance: Homage to Bob Weir of the Grateful Dead

January 11, 2026
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Bob Weir protected the integrity and idealism of the Grateful Dead’s music, playing the band’s songs year after year with a sense of wonder that he never lost touch with.

Translation Spotlight: Haunted and Haunting

December 29, 2025
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Appreciations of three remarkable translated works that have preoccupied me for months.

Arts Feature: The Best in Popular Music 2025

December 23, 2025
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Our popular music critics pick some of the standout albums and live performances of 2025.

Music Feature: The Best Jazz Albums of 2025

December 21, 2025
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The magazine’s jazz critics look back over the past year and highlight their favorite albums.

Arts Feature: Best Movies (With Some Disappointments) of 2025

December 17, 2025
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Our demanding critics choose the best films (along with some disappointments) of the year. And there is plenty of disagreement.

Arts Feature: Top Classical Recordings and Concerts of 2025

December 14, 2025
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Our classical music critics supply their favorites, albums and concerts, from over the past year.

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