Gianni Schicchi & Golden Jubilee Concert at Regina Opera

On the afternoon of Saturday, February 29th, the Regina Opera celebrated its 50th season at our Lady of Perpetual Help (OLPH) in Sunset Park, Brooklyn.  Selections from Verdi’s Don Carlo and Massenet’s Manon, and the Intermezzo from Puccini’s Manon Lescaut were presented as the Golden Jubilee Concert. Eminent Music Director Maestro Gregory Ortega began with excerpts from Giuseppe Verdi’s dark masterpiece Don Carlo.

Maestro Gregory Ortega

“Io la vidi” was brilliantly sung by tenor Chris Carr with some dazzling high notes and his voice which has been called “confident” earned its title. This was a lyrico-spinto voice to watch.

Next was the beckoning opening chords of Verdi’s “O don fatale” by fiery mezzo-soprano Galina Ivannikova. I did not hear the darker “chest voice” to accompany the intensity of sound. I would have preferred she hold the thrilling last note a bit longer to fulfill the finale. Nonetheless, she has tremendous promise and will attain her potential of fame and glory when she does not “overcook” her vocal pasta and becomes the chef supreme.

Mezzo Soprano Galina Ivannikova, Photo by Shweta Bist

“Ella giammai m’amò” was nobly sung by John Dominick III, who captured the majestic delirium of the aging king with a full cornucopia of rich basso cantabile phrasing with heartbreaking softness and power.

Bass John Dominick III, Photo by Shweta Best

Baritone Scott Lefurgy sang “Per me giunto” with a nice dark quality and seemingly newfound power and followed with “Morte di Rodrigo” with perseverance, power and precision. 

Barritone Scott Lefurgy, Photo by Shweta Bist

Tu che le vanità” was sung by soprano Antonina Chehovska in a creamy, dreamy heartfelt outpouring so typical of this grand and intense Verdi opera.

Selections from Massenet’s Manon then followed.

Tenor Chris Carr sang “Ah! fuyez, douce image” with lyricism and golden intensity. I have been spoiled by immortal tenor Enrico Caruso’s 1911 recording of this sublime aria but Mr. Carr’s dramatic rendering also found the longing in one’s soul.

Tenor Chris Carr and Soprano Antonina Chehovska, Photo by Shweta Bist

The passionate duet “Toi! Vous!” was sung by Mr. Carr and Antonina Chehovska as her passionate love lures him in priestly garb from less earthly things back to the passion no longer suppressed, which they shared. Some productions have a bed nearby, not so subtle, but very much needed. Both Chehovska and Carr sang their hearts out and concluded the concert in true operatic and passionate glory.

Fifty years of the Regina Opera is a great and wonderful thing. Maestro Gregory Ortega led the musicians and singers with joy, passion and a sense of a half-century of loves labor found.

Next was Puccini’s great opera and only comedy Gianni Schicchi with a brilliant libretto by Giovacchino Forzano.  Gianni Schicchi was part of Il Trittico which had its Metropolitan Opera premiere in December 1918. Il Tabarro and Suor Angelica were heartbreaking and shocking. Gianni Schicchi the third and last of these operas was hilarious, the most critically acclaimed and is often done by itself or with other short operas. All three are outstanding and were followed later by his last opera, Turandot whose “hit” aria “Nessun Dorma” was sung by many tenors including Franco Corelli, Jussi Björling and Luciano Pavarotti. Puccini died before the opera was finished and Franco Alfano, using Puccini’s sketches, finished the opera – Turandot. 

Elizabeth Hastings was our opera Maestro and it is obvious Ms. Hastings is very much at ease conducting this brilliant masterpiece by the great Giacomo Puccini (1858-1924). She captured the spark of the piece and took us all on such a spirited and happy journey. The thirty-plus splendid musicians of the Regina orchestra were sublime. Plaudits to violinist Christopher Joyal concertmaster, Richard Paratley on flute and Miguel Tepale on the “funeral” bells. Bravo to all!

Maestro Elizabeth Hastings

Gianni Schicchi takes place in Florence, Italy in 1299. Based on some lines in Canto XXX in Dante’s Inferno. Wealthy Buoso Donati has just died. His greedy relatives are trying to conjure up false grief which turns to alarm as Betto, Buoso’s brother-in-law spreads the rumor that Buoso was leaving everything to the monks. After a frantic search, the will is found and sure enough, everything goes to the monks. Rinuccio, Buoso’s nephew and Gianni Schicchi’s daughter Lauretta are in love. The family looks down upon Schicchi as being an upstart like the Medici’s, Giotto and Arnoldo. But Schicchi arrives to “help” them.

Grieving relatives of Buoso Donati, Photo by Kenneth Alexis

Rinuccio, Buoso Donati’s nephew, (portrayed by Chad Kranak) arrives and sings “Firenze come un albero fiorito.” This aria has some vivid high notes and bounces along in persistent vibrant melody. The great American Brooklyn born Met Opera tenor (from Boro Park) Richard Tucker (1913-75) made a great recording of this. Google it! Mr. Kranak’s fine ringing tenor assures us that Rinuccio is as committed to the city of Florence as well as to Gianni Schicchi.  Zita, Buoso’s cousin offers defiance refusing to let her niece, Lauretta marry Rinuccio. Gianni Schicchi senses the greedy hypocrisy and false mourning of the family, while Zita “disinherits” them. Rinuccio begs Schicchi to help them. Lauretta sings the iconic “O Mio Babbino Caro” threatening to throw herself into the Arno River if she cannot marry Rinuccio.

Daughter – Lauretta (Hannah Stone) & Father – Gianni Schicchi (Robert Garner), Photo by Hallie Carmen

Lauretta, played by soprano Hannah Stone, sang this iconic aria with warmth and lyric tenderness which moves her doting father, Gianni Schicchi.  After studying the will and saying “nothing can be done”, he has a change of heart and decides to impersonate the deceased Donati. There is a knock on the door. Schicchi tells everyone to tell the visitor, Dr. Spinelloccio, that Buoso is alive and resting. He tells everyone that he will impersonate Donati and make a new will, “Si corre dal notaio.” Baritone Robert Garner gloriously sang the role of Schicchi and acted with panache and plentitude. His voice pleasing and plangent is not really a buffo one but it is subtle and superb and caresses the ear. His singing of “Si corre dal notaio” was endearing and charismatic. He makes out his will to the relatives who are thrilled. The spoils are divided up; however, the big ones – the mule, the house and the mills – were left to himself, “to my dear friend Gianni Schicchi.”  Schicchi is dressed as Buoso and warns them that the punishment in Florence for lying about wills is that their hands will be cut off and in “Addio Firenze,” they will be exiled from Florence. The notary and witnesses arrive and Gianni Schicchi gets what he wanted.

Gianni Schicchi pretending to be Buoso Donati, Photo by Natsuko Matsumura

The angry relatives loot the place and Schicchi chases them out. Moved at the sight of the happy lovers, he turns to the audience and asks if Buoso’s money could end up better than this, and seeks approval for “extenuating circumstances.”

The smaller parts were all brilliantly done. Zita, Buoso’s cousin was animatedly sung by Alvard Mayilyan, Simone was Buoso’s cousin (Gennadiy Vysotskiy). His warm and powerfully caressing basso shows great promise and his stagecraft is perfection! 

Gherardo, Buoso’s nephew was Josh Avant impressing with vitality and clarity. Nella, Gherardo’s wife was Elena Jannicelli-Sandella whose lustrous soprano and strong drama sense was quite a delight. Baritone Jonathan R. Green as Marco, Simone’s son, also impressed with precision and power, La Ciesca, Marco’s wife played by Heather Antonissen, had a pleasing mezzo-soprano and strong personality.

Betto (Brian Ballard, left) & Simone (Gennadiy Vyostskiy, right), Photo by June Siegler

Brian Ballard was notable as Buoso’s brother-in-law and Dr. Spinellocchio was in the superb hand of baritone John Schenkel. It was so nice to see him once again and enjoy his stellar and sparkling performance.

Ser Amantio di Nicolao, a notary was John Brakatselos, whose bass shined. Pinellino a cobbler, was Thomas Geib; Guccio, a dyer was Eric Lin; Gherardino, Gherardo’s son, the young and gifted Nane Arsenyan;  and Buoso Donati, the sparkling Shelly Barkan, whose talented family have been so supportive to Regina Opera as musicians, singers and actors.

The ensemble of relatives was excellent and was really the choral experience. The costumes by Marcia C. Kresge, so colorful was so fine for 1299. (The year-not the price) were flamboyant from the color of rose to Gianni Schicchi’s nose. (Jimmy Durante has met his schnozzola match!) The sets, designed by Linda Lehr, Wayne Olsen, and Richard Evens, were truly amazing and transported us to Firenze. The center panel on stage showing a view of Florence was remarkable – a triptych of splendor and the genius of set artist Richard Paratley.

The lovers Lauretta  (Hannah Stone) & Rinuccio (Chad Kranak)  Photo by Natsuko Matsumura

Dante Alighieri, poet, writer of The Divine Comedy (1265-1321), places Gianni Schicchi in one of his circles of hell for this so-called crime. I hope he is forgiven by now.

It was nice to greet Joe Delfausse and Marlene Ventimiglia who welcomed all to the Regina Opera family. My opera group went to Casa Vieja, a Mexican Restaurant around the corner afterward, where Lourdes Peña made us feel that food and opera were blended in a perfect afternoon. As for Gianni Schicchi, he really did exist and I hope his stay in hell was a brief and benign one. 

Stage Director Linda Lehr, rode the tiger and tamed it. This Gianni Schicchi was forever placed in the memory bank. The stagecraft was sheer magic and each person stood out! Marie Cantoni and the founders of the Regina Opera past and Fran Garber deserve our praise and applause. The informative subtitles were very helpful. We look forward to Turandot in May. The Regina Opera has provided fifty years of joy and great opera for Brooklyn and opera lovers everywhere.

Amore Opera Delightfully Ushers in the New Year with Gala Opera & Dinner

On December 31st, the Amore Opera celebrated the incoming 2020 with a glorious New Year’s Eve gala of opera and dinner at St. Paul & St. Andrew’s Church in New York City. Artistic Director Nathan Hull welcomed one and all to the Amore Opera’s tenth season. Many received New Year hats and noisemakers to properly ring in the new decade.

Bohemians with Mimi & Rodolfo
Rachel Hippert, Jose Heredia, Johnathan Green, Samuel Flores & Gennady Vysotsky ( Image courtesy of Amore Opera)

Nathan Hull, who did the superb staging, directs the Amore Opera in the style of the late beloved Anthony Amato (1920-2011) who retired in 2009 and Sally Amato (1917-2000). The Amore Opera gave its first performance of La Bohème staged by Nathan Hull and conducted by Maestro Richard Owen, who returned tonight to help Amore Opera celebrate its tenth year. The second acts are usually joyous and the main characters haven’t been subject to tragedy yet.

Musetta’s Waltz with Victoria Wefer (Image courtesy of Amore Opera)

But before La Bohème, Carmen and Die Fledermaus, the ebullient and elegantly attired host Nathan Hull had the singers entertain us with one of his favorite operas, Giacomo Puccini’s operetta La Rondine (1917). The Quartet was caressingly sung and this bittersweet opera does not end tragically. But like the film masterpiece, The Umbrellas of Cherbourg (1965) with a touching score by Michel Legrand, the couples’ love dies leaving them from the life that could have been but never was. Catherine Deneuve was so poignant in this superb love story. In La Rondine, the Act Two quartet “Bevo al tuo fresco sorriso” tugs at the heart. Soprano Alexys Tiscareno played Lisette with impressive panache and voluptuous luminous sound. Tenor José Heredia hit some heavenly high notes, his rich voice full of the sensual joyous sound of young love. Soprano Rachel Hippert as Magda (Pauline) seemed bewitched by her deception, hitting climactic highs while baritone Luca Fric completed the passionate outpourings with his suave manly sound. It was so nice to hear this touching and exciting music by the great Puccini in such a tender story.

Carmen & Don Jose
Iris Karlin & Riad Ymeri (Image courtesy of Amore Opera)

La Bohème Act Two, takes place at the Café Momus on Christmas Eve in Paris. Four starving artists share a flat and are out for a night of frolic. All are desperately poor: Rodolfo, a poet, Marcello, a painter, Colline, a philosopher and Schaunard, a musician. Rodolfo and Mimi fall in love, but Musetta, Marcello’s ex-girlfriend is there with her new older and richer companion. Musetta (Victoria Wefer) flamboyantly arrives, then sings “Quando m’en vo” in a beautiful soprano hitting the highs with sensual splendor. Her screams of pain from ill fitting shoes were piercing enough to fool Alcindoro amusingly played and sung by David Owen, to go out and buy her another pair thus enabling Marcello and she a chance to kiss, embrace and “make up” gloriously. When Alcindoro returns he is handed the bill as Parpignol, the toy vendor, leads a parade for the children. The Rodolfo was rising tenor José Heredia who sang some truly golden phrases. He is becoming one of the best lyrico spinto tenors and is a proud son of the tropical isle of Santo Domingo.

Torreador Song with Escamillo the bullfighter
Roberto Borgatti (Image courtesy of Amore Opera)

The spirited Marcello, Jonathan R. Green, had a majestic powerful baritone and was impressive. His interplay with Musetta was fun to watch even when she doused him with water. Mimi was portrayed by Rachel Hippert, Schaunard by Samuel Flores and Colline by Gennady Vysotsky. I would have loved to hear him sing Vecchia Zimarra (The Coat song) but that’s in the final act.The guests, Alexys Tiscareno and Luka Fric made their presence known with color and flamboyance and vocal elan.

Adele teaches the Marquis Alea Gorillas & Christopher Eaglin (Image courtesy of Amore Opera)

Carmen was presented next with its thrilling overture offered as a special gift by Maestro Richard Owen. In my young boyhood, the Carmen overture was part of our music appreciation class and made me take notice of such classical gems! Maestro Owen led the orchestra in a particularly full sounding version reviving the goosebumps I felt hearing it in music appreciation class at P.S. 200 in Bensonhurst-Bath Beach, Brooklyn. Schools should be having such introductions to classical music today.

Rosalinda Sings Czardaz to Prince Orlofsky
Ashley Becker & Hayden DeWitt (Image courtesy of Amore Opera)

Iris Karlin was a sultry, subtle sexy Carmen, her dark sound was sensual, luscious and intimate. Her Seguidilla was a whirlwind of precision and passion and her “Tra la la” melody was as caressing as the cloth that captured the head  fresh off the guillotine. Ms. Karlin knows Carmen inside and out. Her Carmen was calculating, contemporary, freedom seeking and always a strong part whore troublemaker. Her Don José was the excellent Albanian tenor Riad Ymeri, whose years in Italy led him to his career here. There were many  golden outpourings rising with real dramatic fervor. When my wife Judy and I first heard Riad as a marvelous lyric tenor I did not think of him as Don José. His superb singing of the flower song slightly tapered on the high finale was heartwarming and really good. He is on his way!

Megan Marod caught the eye and the ear as Frasquita. In ensemble, her dynamic soprano ultra high notes stood out and her eye catching acting enticed. Enchanting voiced Perri Sussman was stellar as Mercédès. Escamillo was in the able hands of Roberto Borgatti whose robust baritone made the most of “Votre toast” (“The Toreador Song”) and whose machismo put him in the realm, somewhat limited today) of good manly Escamillo’s. Rick Agster excelled as Zuniga, Julio Mascaro as Remendado and Thomas Geib as Dancaïro. Trey Sandusky was “a su sordones” or “at your service” at Lillas Pastia’s Inn. To see Don José and Escamillo thrust knives was hair raising. Their passionate anger made one think of what was yet to come.The dialogue was in English and the arias in French.

After a superb dinner (no Toro) but pasta, fish, fowl, wine and countless other savory foods, we headed back for Die Fledermaus. Johann Strauss’ opera is full of waltz melodies and is also called the Revenge of the Bat.The action takes place in Vienna on New Year’s eve in the 1870’s.The excellent dialogue and arias were in English. Dr. Falke invites his friend Eisenstein to attend a party at Prince Orlovsky’s mansion, instead of serving a jail sentence. He also invites Eisenstein’s wife Rosalinde so she can see her husband’s philandering. Adele their chambermaid attends as an actress. The jailer Frank is invited as a French Marquis and the fun and frolic begins. 

Prince Orlofsky – Hayden DeWitt
sings Champagne Song to Christopher Eaglin (Image courtesy of Amore Opera)

Mezzo soprano Hayden DeWitt was Prince Orlovsky. The essence of androgyny with her male attire, strong mezzo and mustache, she looked like Charlie Chaplin and Al Pacino. Her “Chanson a son gout” aria was done with sparkle and brio and her King Champagne song certainly suited the evening. Blame it on Rio was a film with Joe Bologna and Michael Caine and the excuse for all their  wrongs was Rio de Janeiro), so whatever happens, blame the champagne. Ashley Becker as Rosalinde, used her rich flexible captivating soprano in her Hungarian Gypsy song “Czardas,” ending with a brilliantly sustained high note. Rosalinde’s chasing her husband Eisenstein, with his gold “flirting” watch evoked memories of the great film comedian Marie Dressler who was hilarious in Tillie’s Punctured Romance, a full length silent film (1914) where she was a match for Charlie Chaplin! She won an Oscar for her unforgettable double take with Jean Harlow in Dinner at Eight in the early 1930’s. Ms. Becker is a “super” talent.

Holly Flack sings The Doll Song from Tales of Hoffmann (Image courtesy of Amore Opera)

Gabriel von Eisenstein was played by Christopher Eaglin whose impressive tenor expressed dismay in his problems. Adele the chambermaid, was vibrantly sung and acted by Alea Vorillas whose soaring and lovely soprano sang her laughing song with coloratura agility and generous tone. (Florence Foster-Jenkins, made a recording of Adele’s “Laughing song” that will have one laughing!) “I love he ( or she) who yearns for the impossible.” (Goethe) Coloratura soprano Holly Flack was a guest at Prince Orlovsky’s party and sang an extra spectacular “Doll Song” from Offenbach’s Tales of Hoffmann. The encore was the Queen of the Night aria from Mozart’s The Magic Flute.The audience was completely blown away by the power, agility and outer space high notes to spare. I hope the Metropolitan Opera takes notice! 

Sublime baritone Robert Garner was Dr. Falke. Garner’s elegant and silken voice has a robustness evoking the greats of the past.The Bruderlein song “Just one kiss” with cast and resounding chorus always touches all the right spots with its majestic sweep and nostalgic longing.The English dialogue was well done and left us all clear about the madcap fun.

James Stephen Longo was the absolute Ivan! Dramatic soprano Kristina Malinauskaite was Sally, ingratiating and vocally noteworthy and Jay Gould was Frank the Governor of the jail. Mr.Gould is also the videographer of the production. Gould’s fine comedic stance and dark deep voice made him a formidable presence but always irresistibly amusing. No wonder he is such a great Gilbert and Sullivan performer. The conductor Richard Owen had the joie de vivre to have the splendid musicians take us all on a joyous ride conducted with vivacious Viennese flawless flair. 

It was nice to greet our friend Scott Wiley on the french horn and Richard Paratley on the flute. Great music makers in a great ensemble. Nathan Hull’s stage direction was brilliantly done and the chorus, children’s chorus and costumes were perfection.

Nino Pantano, reviewer & Nathan Hull, Artistic Director (Image courtesy of Judy Pantano)

This Fledermaus act ended with the Champagne song about 2 minutes before midnight. Nathan Hull and the singers gave out glasses of champagne and had us all sing “Auld Lang Syne” and toast the New Year 2020! Desserts and a brief concert followed and the new year was off to a glorious start!

We tip our feathered New Years hats to Anthony and Sally Amato of beloved memory and artistic director Nathan Hull, staff and singers who put the love in the “Amore” Opera. Happy New Year and happy tenth anniversary to the Amore Opera.

A Colorful, Carefree, & Calculating Carmen Begins Regina Opera’s 50th Season

The Regina Opera Company began its 50th season with Carmen on Saturday, November 23rd in Sunset Park at Our Lady of Perpetual Help (OLPH) in their elegant auditorium. A crowded house warmly applauded Regina Chair Francine Garber-Cohen as she announced that the Regina Opera was ready to show the glories of Bizet’s masterpiece Carmen to the eager audience of opera lovers and audience members enjoying opera for the first time.

George Bizet (1838-1875) had written The Pearl Fishers earlier. That opera is exotic and has some lovely arias and duets, but not even a brilliant opening night at the Met with a stellar cast including Enrico Caruso could save it. It was recently successfully revived but it is a far cry from Carmen. Bizet finished Carmen but never knew the great fame and future glory this masterpiece would create. He died of heart disease at age 36.

Geraldine Farrar (1882-1967) was an American soprano beloved by her fans. Cecil B. DeMille chose her to star in his silent film Carmen (1915). She was so successful that she made 15 films for DeMille. Our friend, actress Geraldine Abbate, told us her parents named her “Geraldine” after Geraldine Farrar. Her esteemed husband Dr. Anthony Abbate, a fellow opera lover, is a boyhood friend and a renowned urologist. It was so nice to see his family of new opera lovers attending this performance of Carmen. Dr. Abbate is also a very talented sculptor and a few years ago for my 80th birthday he  gave me a truly wonderful bronze sculpture of the greatest of conductors, Arturo Toscanini which adorns my living room. Thank you Anthony, fellow Sicilian, opera lover and great friend.

Geraldine Farrar’s Metropolitan Opera Carmen was first criticized for being too tame. When she returned from filming, her Carmen was so frantic that she fought with a chorus girl and slapped Caruso. Caruso was furious at her brutally rough treatment and vowed he would never sing with her again. Cool heads prevailed and they performed together again to the audience’s raves (with her somewhat toned down Carmen).

Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) was treated to their Carmen on February 2, 1915 with Arturo Toscanini conducting. Caruso also sang Don José on January 14, 1909 at BAM again with Toscanini. The Met Opera included BAM as part of its tour until 1937. When Mme. Farrar retired at age 40 from opera in 1922, her fans, called “Gerryflappers”, filled the streets in front of the Old Met where she sang Leoncavallo’s Zaza.

The Regina Opera’s “Carmen” began with esteemed Maestro Gregory Ortega conducting the exciting Overture. It recalled Music Appreciation at  P.S. 200 in Bensonhurst when I would get goosebumps listening to the overture and didn’t know what it was. Maestro Gregory Ortega told me how much he enjoys conducting this incredible opera. His rhythmical and exciting passages made for an abundance of musical and emotional feelings in my innermost being.

Carmen (Lara Michole Tillotson) with the Factory Cigarette Girls & Soldiers at the Tavern. Photo by Marianna Coleman

The story takes place in a square in Seville in the 19th century. Carmen and her friends work in a factory and are known as “cigarette girls.” Carmen is not a “Puttana Diavolo” but she seemed to be at that time. She was a woman of an independent spirit. In the film, more based on French writer Prosper Mérimée’s story, Don José looks like he was hit by a truck when she gave him the rose. One knew he was doomed. At the finale, he has lost his beloved mother, his sweet fiancee Micaëla, his reputation and his military bearing. He has joined the smugglers and in a sense was like the village idiot. Carmen falls in love with Escamillo, the bullfighter. She is stabbed and killed by Don José outside the bull ring (Corrida de Toros) amid the cheers for her lover Escamillo, inside the bull ring.

Carmen (Lara Tillotson) enticing Don José (Christopher Trapani).   Photo by Steven Pisano

Lara Michole Tillotson used her lustrous mezzo soprano in the “Seguidilla.” The lyrics explain Carmen’s free spirit, while the toe tapping rhythms entice even the tightest white-collared cleric to thoughts of lustful mayhem. Ms.Tillotson caught one’s attention in a pleasing plangent persistent outburst. Her “Seguidilla” was enticing and the castanets were well negotiated.

Micaëla (Alexis Cregger, right) finds Don José (Christopher Trapani, left) in the mountains to deliver news about his mother.  Photo by Steven Pisano

The card scene was a bit tame, and I recall the late beloved mezzo from the Bronx, Risë Stevens with Brooklyn born tenor Richard Tucker (born Reuben Ticker in Boro Park, Brooklyn) giving us a lesson in great singing with strong emotion. This was in “Carmen” at the “Old” Metropolitan Opera. Like Geraldine Farrar’s early Carmen, a certain panache was eluding the Regina performance.  Carmen’s “Habanera” was well done without incident. The castanets were as adroitly used as the cigarettes that the factory girls hungrily smoked. Her “Tra la la” song was like Lana Turner capturing her male prey in the film, The Postman Always Rings Twice. Ms. Tillotson’s ridicule of Don José’s refusal of her effort to go back to military roll call was very strongly done, indicating a more controlling Carmen than one would want. Her final scene in front of the Corrida de Toros was indelible as well as inevitable. Carmen’s love duet with Escamillo was indicative of the strength of her new love.This duet was brilliantly sung by film baritone Nelson Eddy and film femme fatale Ilona Massey in Balalaika (1939). I thought it a bit rushed at this performance and should have been emphasized more to show that this was Carmen’s new love.

Escamillo (Jaeman Yoon, center right) invites Carmen (Lara Tillotson, center left) and the gypsies to watch him in the bullring. Photo by Steven Pisano

Dragoon, military officer Don José, was in the able hands of rising tenor Christopher Trapani. I recall Mr. Trapani’s splendid Manrico (Il Trovatore) at Regina Opera earlier this year. Mr. Trapani has a very fine tenor voice and his duet with Macaëla, “Parlez-moi de ma mère”  was beautifully sung, recalling the recording of Enrico Caruso and Frances Alda, which is a classic. Mr. Trapani’s singing of the iconic “Flower Song,”  (“La fleur que tu m’avais jetée”) was wonderfully done in the style of renowned tenor Franco Corelli. Mr. Trapani hit the top note with seemingly effortless freedom and truly made one hope that his talent will carry him to fame and acclaim. His final scene should have probed his shame as well as his anger a bit more deeply. But he did very well but like a good pasta dish I wanted some “extra” meatballs.

Dancers Wendy Chu (left) & Keiji Kubo (right).  Photo by Steven Pisano

The Micaëla of Alexis Cregger, whose radiant soprano has thrilled in Il Ballo in Maschera, Il Trovatore, and the title role in Lucia di Lammermoor at Regina Opera, was pristine and all in vain because Don José simply can’t leave Carmen. I once again felt a bit of restraint. Her singing of “Je dis que rien ne m’épouvante” was nicely done. This aria has ofttimes brought the house down, as it should. One does not have to have histrionics, but a certain tear in the voice and a sob in the heart can do it. All attention should go to Micaëla’s radiant plea. I suggest a little more indescribable thrust be felt by Ms. Cregger to bring down the house.

Escamillo (Jaeman Yoon, right) & Carmen (Lara Tillotson, left) in the plaza outside the bullring. Photo by Steven Pisano

The Escamillo of Jaeman Yoon was audience pleasing. His warm baritone was expressive and soothing. His singing of “Votre Toast” (“The Toreador Song”) was vividly done and with the splendid Regina Chorus, it really energized the audience. Yoon’s love duet with Carmen was a generous blend of sound and he has really come far as a Gerda Lissner, Giulio Gari, and Opera Index winner.

Don José (Christopher Trapani, right) is about to stab Carmen (Lara Tillotson, left). Photo by Shweta Bist

The rest of this talented ensemble were: Geeseop Kim as Zuniga, a Captain;  Brian Ballard as Morales, an Officer; Katie Lipow as Frasquita and Maayan Voss de Bettancourt as Mercedes. gypsies; David Tillistrand as Dancaïro and Josh Avant as Remendado, two smugglers; Thomas Geib as a guide;  Roger Ohlsen as cabaret manager Lillas Pastia; the superb dancers Wendy Chu and Keiji Kubo, whose graceful movements were magical.The ensemble members were all excellent and it was nice to see veteran chorister Cathy Greco and artist Wayne Olsen. Nomi Barkan also lent her sparkling presence.

Don José (Christopher Trapani, above) & Carmen (Lara Tillotson, below).  Photo by Steven Pisano

Gregory Ortega conducted an inspired performance, and one enjoyed the Maestro’s eliciting the  phenomenal beauty and power of this brilliant score. Richard Paratley was noteworthy on the flute. Plaudits to Christopher Joyal, concertmaster. All 36 musicians deserve extravagant praise for their efforts.

The beautiful and proper costumes by Marcia Kresge were colorful and gave one a good  sense of time past. The Regina Chorus and the splendid Children’s Chorus sang with glory and abandon. How grand!

The set design by Linda Lehr, Wayne Olsen, and Richard Paratley was exceptional. The painted large bull outside The Plaza de Toros was stunning. The blood-spattered paint in other scenes was a bit awkward and I felt it should have been omitted. Goya and Dali clash rather than blend.

This Carmen was directed by the brilliant Linda Lehr, a great favorite of mine. Regina Opera is lucky to have someone of such wonderful talent in this special celebration of Regina Opera’s 50th season of bringing the opera world to Brooklyn as the Metropolitan Opera once did.

Congratulations to Francine Garber-Cohen, Chair, Linda Cantoni, Joseph Defausse, Alex Guzman, Elena Jannicelli-Sandella, all board directors; and Marlene Ventimiglia, ticket volunteer and all members of the Regina family.

My group celebrated the occasion at Casa Vieja, a nearby Mexican Restaurant, where we had delicious food washed down with Sangria!  Hostess Lourdes Peña was our Lillas Pastia and we all had a great time! We look forward to Gianni Schicchi and Turandôt coming up in 2020, and many others in the future.

All hail the Regina Opera on its golden anniversary. A Christmas and holiday gift to Brooklyn and the world of Opera at its finest!

Martina Arroyo’s Prelude to Performance Presents a Sparkling Die Fledermaus

Martina Arroyo, Kennedy Award ceremony honoree, soprano supreme, who has been a beacon of light and pioneer since the 1960’s and 1970’s, a crossover classical singer with a delightful sense of humor still is in the game. She is a brilliant teacher “go getter”and nurturer through her Martina Arroyo Foundation. This gala event occurred at the Kaye Playhouse at Hunter College in New York City on Saturday, July 13th. Danny Kaye, (1913-1987) great entertainer and  film comedian and his wife (songwriter-actress) Sylvia Fine (1913-1991) were both multi- talented Brooklynites whose names live on in glorious memory.

Danny Kaye & Sylvia Fine

Esteemed Metropolitan and New York City Opera tenor Richard Leech spoke of his commitment to the Martina Arroyo Foundation and his strong belief in its being the joyful breeding ground for our fresh new generation of singers eager and ready to “strut their stuff ” when they have trained diligently and are ready. A vigorous 6 weeks plus stipend is a Godsend for the young, eager and talented recipients.

Legendary Soprano Martina Arroyo. Photo by Jen Joyce Davis

Johann Strauss II (1825-1899) was known as the “Waltz King” and he put all that he had in his opera Die Fledermaus (The Revenge of the Bat). With its waltzes, folk tunes, choruses comedy and subplots, it has been a staple since its premiere on April 5, 1874. Die Fledermaus is set in Vienna in the late 19th century. The witty libretto is by Karl Haffner and Richard Genée.

The excellent conductor, Maestro Valéry Ryvkin, began the lively overture, an iconic favorite and all was well with the world as the eager audience were carried away to the funny, frivolous world of the golden gem of Vienna in its prime. The joyous abundance of rhythm and melody so superbly presented, gave all a sense of expectation which later became fulfillment. All of the musicians were splendid and gave us a pulse that we would retain for days. We are looking forward to the return of Music Director Willie Anthony Waters who is on the mend and expected back next summer.

Rosalinda (Lisa Faieta) & Alfred (Congju Song).  Photo by Jen Joyce Davis

The Rosalinda of clarion soprano Lisa Faieta was top notch. Her soprano has power, reserve, flexibility and a resonant top. Her duets with her husband Eisenstein were amusing and her ensemble singing impeccable. Her “Hungarian” song the “Czardas” was sung brilliantly, with a multitude of roulades and flourishes climaxed with a beautifully placed final high note!

Gabriel von Eisenstein was portrayed by Jimin Park and his firmly placed baritone allowed him to stretch the envelope with a wide vocal umbrella. He sang and acted with manly grace and was amusing and pleasing. His opening for “Goodness me, oh gracious me, what calamity” led to much merriment and revealed the sweetness and power of his voice.

Eisenstein (Jimin Park), Dr. Blind (Esteban Zuniga) & Rosalinda (Lisa Faieta).  Photo by Jen Joyce Davis

Adele, the chambermaid, was in the enchanting curvaceous vase of Yejin Lee who used her lithe and lean anatomy in a role that called for “excess.” Thank goodness she banished from memory Mme. Florence Foster-Jenkins (Meryl Streep in the film) who LOVED singing her “Laughing Song,” (Mein Herr, Marquis) as well as her actress song, “Audition song,” Act Three. Ms. Lee scored a big hit and was an audience favorite. Her coloratura soprano has a quicksilver quality and her theatrical bravura was truly outstanding. She dominated ensemble singing and made a very strong impact. 

The Ida of Michaela Larsen was visually and vocally another bright ray in this production. Her plangent soprano envelopes the observer and coupled with excellent stagecraft, made for a lovely interlude.

Adele (Yejin Lee), Rosalinda (Lisa Faieta) & Eisenstein (Jimin Park ). Photo by Jen Joyce Davis

The Alfred of tenor Congju Song was most amusing,”Drink my darling” and in the red dressing gown and hat of Eisenstein, he looked more like an Emperor than an Italian tenor (Ex beau of Rosalinda). His Pavarottian countenance made for humor and his attractive tenor was another big plus. I wished he had been given more stage time to portray Rosalinda’s Italian wannabee tenor and I missed the many snippets of opera his character usually embraced, everything from “Di quella pira” to “O sole mio.” As a Sicilian American, I certainly think he could have been a wonderful comic foil and a droll Italian!

I remember a heroic tenor from the Amato Opera, Boris Cristaldi who was a wonderful big voiced hammy and funny Alfred some four decades ago. At one performance his mustache got stuck on Rosalinda’s cheek! I wished for some broader comedy this time around but Mr. Song certainly did well. I guess not everyone goes as far back as I. It was nice to be sitting next to Amato baritone, Nathan Hull who directs the Amore Opera, now the chosen replacement for the Amato Opera. Nathan Hull took a full page ad in the Die Fledermaus program for Amore Opera’s December’s The Merry Widow. As we were chatting, the effervescent Barbara Meister-Bender walked by. She of New York City Opera, sang with Groucho Marx and Helen Traubel in a television presentation of The Mikado. Barbara Meister-Bender, ever glamorous could still sing Adele to perfection!

Dr. Falke (Michael Parham) at Prince Orlofsky’s Ball. Photo by Jen Joyce Davis

Dr. Falke was in the spirited countenance of Michael Parham. Mr. Parham’s bass is resonant and ear caressing. His singing of Bruderlein song in the second act was noble and with the ensemble it becomes sentimental and tinged with loving sadness. Nice job, Falke! I recall the excellent Falke of the Amato Opera some 40 or so years ago by baritone Walter Kavney. His partner, tenor Vincent Titone, was a staple at the Amato also for many  years.

Dr. Blind was admirably portrayed by Esteban Zuniga. This role was toned down a bit and became more of a comedic part rather than a disabled travesty. Mr. Zuniga, while not a Lou Costello, managed to be pleasantly  humorous in a buffo role! Mr. Zuniga has good comedic flair and needed more space to show it!  

Frank portrayed by Yichen Xue, had a pleasing baritone and strong acting ability and was an interesting amalgam of many skilled parts. He had charm, voice and elan and captivated us. To be frank (pun), he was very good!

Sisters Ida (Michaela Larsen) & Olga (Yejin Lee) presented at Prince Orlofsky’s (Elizabeth Harris) Ball.  Photo by Jen Joyce Davis

Prince Orlofsky, the androgynous host of the party, was superbly brought to vivid life by Elizabeth Harris. With her red topped military outfit and clump of hair, she looked like a combination of Harpo Marx and the chief soccer player currently in Sports Illustrated, Megin Rapinoe. Ms. Harris’s “Chacun à son goût” aria was marvelous and her “King Champagne” aria was exciting with her strong mezzo and the percussion collaborating and her eyes fixed on Adele. Her silent servant, Ivan was well done and always had a drink at the ready! 

Eisenstein wooing his wife Rosalinda (Hungarian Countess) with Watch song.  Photo by Jen Joyce Davis

Frosch, portrayed by Evan Julius Nelson was present but there was no comic interlude. Several years back, at the Metropolitan Opera, I recall the great Sid Caesar as a hilarious multi-lingual incomprehensible Frosch and Dom De Louise also funny, in a later production hiding, then stepping onstage and exclaiming “I’m finally out of the closet.”

Melanie was Amy Guarino, whose sweetness and stellar soprano show promise and Lindsay Cherin, New Jersey soprano sparkled as Faustine.

 Kudos to Alan Fisher Stage Director and Vera Junkers, German coach. I had a bit of a problem reading the prompter but most people I am certain, found the dialogue translations useful. Lisa Jablow is to be thanked for her pulling it off so well for so many.  

The party scene had WQXR radio host Robert Sherman speak and introduce several singers to entertain. At the old Met, on February 16, 1905, Enrico Caruso sang an aria as a guest at Prince Orlofsky’s party and Polish soprano legend Mme. Marcella Sembrich (Rosalinda) sang and played violin! Those were the days! The Marcella Sembrich Museum at Bolton Landing on the banks of Lake George, is open summers and well worth a visit! You will find Artistic Director and composer Richard Wargo eager to provide information about their upcoming events.

Rosalinda singing the Hungarian Cszardis.  Photo by Jen Joyce Davis

Nicole Haslett who amazed us with Nannetta’s “Forest aria – Sul fil d’un soffio etesio”  from Verdi’s Falstaff made us realize how perfect this magical aria is. It was written in Verdi’s 80th year and brought to mind Prelude to Performances – splendid Falstaff last year, still flashing in memory.

Noah Stewart, spinto tenor with a “beacon of light” talent that will open more doors and more roles to future male singers of color, sang “Donna non vidi mai” from Puccini’s Manon Lescaut with verve, passion and longing, which coupled with a vibrant and rhapsodic tenor, made for a fine and robust interlude.

Bulgarian soprano Mariana Zvetkova gave a strong and powerful sampling of “Io son L’umile ancella” from Adriana Lecouvreur. Since 2012, Marianna Zvetkova has been Vice President of the Martina Arroyo Foundation.

A “surprise” appearance by coloratura legend Harolyn Blackwell, sang Puccini’s “O mio babbino caro” in a lovely soprano with diminishing pianissimos and all those special skills one associates with her name and claim to fame. Ms. Blackwell is a member of the Martina Arroyo Advisory Board. 

The sets were regal and sparkling with projections of old Vienna. Its  wonderful costumes were so fine to see and the ladies evoked memories of Zsa Zsa Gabor and family. The gentlemen were in spirit, all like actor Kurt Kasznar or baritone Herman Prey and were perfectly attired. Thanks to Ianna Higgins, Assistant Stage Manager for the elegant smoothness of it all. Many people worked hard to make it look easy!

The chorus, managed by Dror Baitel, sang wonderfully and “Brüderlein, schwesterlein” as always gave me goose bumps. Beautiful music gives one goosebumps not goosesteps!


It was so nice to see great Metropolitan Opera Verdi baritone Mark Rucker and charming and gifted Sadie Rucker (publicity) and Administrative Director Deborah Surdi, whose dedication to the Martina Arroyo Foundation results in such perfect evenings. We greeted our friends from Opera Index Jane Shaulis, Joe Gasperec, Murray Rosenthal, composer Philip Hagemann, Linda Howes, with composer pianist, Steve Phebus and Bill Goodhue, opera manager Ken Benson, Career Bridges Barbara and David Bender, writer Meche Kroop, French diction teacher Susan and lawyer Arthur Stout, opera lecturer Lou and Kathleen Barrella, Deborah Surdi, designer Rafael Sanchez and vocal coach Patricia Sheridan, stellar radio host Nimet Habachy and friend and opera lover Joan Gravallese, all “surprises” on this beautiful summer night. The famed filmmaker team of Powell and Pressburger, The Red Shoes (1948) and Tales of Hoffmann (1951) made Rosalinda (1955) with Anthony Quale, Ludmilla Tchérina and Anton Walbrook which updated Die Fledermaus to post World War II Vienna – well worth searching for! 

Prince Orlofsky & Chorus singing the Champagne Song . Photo by Jen Joyce Davis

We found out later that a large part of New York City had a blackout with people stuck on trains and  elevators for hours-but all was well at the Kaye Playhouse for a splendid production of Die Fledermaus! Here’s to next year with a toast to the great Martina Arroyo whose father Demetrio worked as a supervisor at the Brooklyn Navy Yard to help with the cost of young Martina’s voice lessons. He often took Martina for baseball games (Brooklyn Dodgers) and delicious hot dogs at Ebbets Field. Thank you Martina’s Mom and Dad and thank you Martina for Prelude to Performance which gives so many young and talented singers such a great lift, enough to see the future, doing what they love. Bravo to all! 

A Toast to Prelude to Performance from Prince Orlofsky and guests for giving us 15 years of such delightful evenings! Chacun à son goût! Judy and I add the” special flavor with toppings” to our Fledermaus memory bank that this treasured and fun night offered us from the great Martina Arroyo’s new arrivals at the opera scene in a very captivating and enchanting performance of Die Fledermaus and of course thank you to Johann Strauss II for this glittering masterpiece!

Amore Opera Presents A Thrilling Un Ballo in Maschera

On the evening of Saturday, June 1st, the Amore Opera presented a thrilling Un Ballo in Maschera at the famed Riverside Church in New York City. Un Ballo in Maschera premiered at the Teatro Apollo in Rome, Italy on February 17, 1859. The music was composed by Giuseppe Verdi and libretto by Antonio Somma, based on Eugène Scribe’s libretto for Auber’s Gustave III. The censors in Italy objected to having a royal assassination and Verdi had the setting changed from Sweden to Boston, Massachusetts and King Gustave of Sweden became the Governor of Massachusetts. Both versions are given.

The Riverside theater is intimate and everything is up close and comfortable and the spirit of Anthony and Sally Amato is ever present. Anthony contributed costumes and sets from their home at the Amato Opera in the Bowery many years ago.

The lights dimmed and conductor Douglas Martin lifted his baton. The overture was beautifully played and the peak moments were thrilling. Musically, the overture ended and the action begins at the King’s Palace in Stockholm, Sweden in 1792. The assassination was historic  and the masked ball where it took place made for great theatre!

Center in black José Heredia as Riccardo, King; just left is Robert Garner as Renato, his secretary & best friend, & right in green trousers is Merrin Lazyan, Riccardo’s Page Oscar.  Photo by Jay Gould

Riccardo, the King of Sweden, is in love with Amelia, wife of his best friend Renato and his secretary. They all go to Ulrica the fortune teller, who tells Riccardo that he will be killed by the next man to shake his hand. Ironically it is Renato. They all laugh off the witch’s assumptions. To rid Amelia of her feelings of love for Riccardo, Ulrica recommends a special herb gathered at midnight by the gallows outside of town. Amelia is first interrupted by Riccardo, who declares his love for her and then by Renato. Renato tells Riccardo that there is a conspiracy to kill him. Renato discovers the veiled woman he has agreed to escort to safety is his own wife. He then decides to join the conspirators. At a masked ball, Oscar the page reveals his master’s identity to Renato who stabs Riccardo. Riccardo dies declaring Amelia’s innocence and forgiving his enemies as the crowd hails his noble spirit.

Ulrica (Sarah Knott) the witch at her cauldron muttering prophecies.  Photo by Jay Gould

Verdi’s music for Ballo is sophisticated and French Opera Comique with Falstaffian precursors and some real heel kicking can-can type music. Beautiful arias, duets and ensembles bursting with emotion and melody make for a splendid musical  feast.

Tenor José Heredia sang Riccardo (Based on Gustave III) This enchanting tenor from Santo Domingo was in excellent voice and bearing for this performance. Heredia has grown as an artist and his rhapsodic tenor has beauty, ease and upward promise. Bursts of glory prevailed with intelligent pacing and refined legato. His elegant singing of “Amici miei, soldati” and “La rivedrò nell’estaci” were well noted with effortless and powerful ascents.

Ulrica (Sarah Knott) the witch at her cauldron muttering incantations in front of a group of women.  Photo by Jay Gould

At Ulrica’s witches den, Riccardo sings “Di’ tu se fedele,” then laughs and starts the Quintet “È scherzo od è follia.” His combining rapid singing mixed with laughter was admirable.  Enrico Caruso, the magnificent tenor, made a recording of this on April 3, 1914 with other arias from Il Ballo – give it a google. Riccardo and Amelia were truly united in their captivating love duet “Non sai tu che se l’anima mia” with swirling heavenly music ending in a rhapsodic high C.

José Heredia as Riccardo & Elizabeth Perryman as Amelia, wife of Renato.  Photo by Jay Gould

In Act 3 Scene 2, Riccardo resolves to renounce his love and sings, “Ma se m’è forza perderti.” Heredia’s voice was beautifully secure and his middle register was a launching pad for some truly pristine notes. I have heard the great Carlo Bergonzi in this role as well as Luciano Pavarotti but José Heredia makes for a trio of great Riccardo’s. The squillo in his tone, the way he rides his voice to the upper chambers and the pleasing, plangent quality of his vocal palette, puts him is a position of rapid forward momentum toward international acclaim.

L-R Robert Garner as Renato, José Heredia as Riccardo & veiled Amelia, Elizabeth Perryman as wife of Renato.  Photo by Jay Gould

Amelia, wife of Renato, is in love with Riccardo and was sung by Elizabeth Perryman who possessed a bright powerful soprano. Her singing of “Ecco l’orrido campo” was of good strong caliber as was “Ma dall’ arido stele divulsa.” Her impassioned outbursts in her love duet with Riccardo, “Non sai tu che se lanima mia” were quite striking. Ms. Perryman sang “Morrò, ma prima in grazia” with abundant tone  and emotional fervor This aria really brings out the soul and torment of Amelia as she begs to see her son one more time. It is one of Verdi’s most compelling arias and she used her vocal gifts with clarity and precision. Ms. Perryman made this reviewer a merryman with her truly outstanding performance.

Amelia begging husband Renato to let her see their son.  Photo by Jay Gould

Renato, Riccardo’s secretary and best friend, was in the vocal treasure box of Robert Garner. Mr. Garner possessed a lyric baritone that can take one out of the commonplace and into the rare with its warmth and seductive beauty. In Act One he sings “Alla vita che l’arride” in a strong encompassing tone, warning Riccardo of a conspiracy. Mr. Garner does not possess a voice of leonine strength but it has ample sound, excellent breath control, strong legato and warmth to kill. His heartfelt singing of “Eri tu” wiped away the rage for the moment and exposed the vulnerable bleeding heart. When I was 13 and surprisingly a baritone, my voice teacher neighbor and mentor Bertha Lang, made me listen to a beautiful recording of the great American Opera and film baritone Lawrence Tibbett. (1896-1960) “Eri tu” was often sung in concert by Tibbett but he never sang it in the complete opera. Mr. Garner captured the rage, hurt and love of Renato and got an ovation.  

At the Masked Ball with Oscar the Page (Merrin Lazyan) in green trousers.  Photo by Jay Gould

Riccardo’s Page Oscar, a trouser role, was sung by clarion voiced coloratura soprano Merrin Lazyan. Her singing of “Volta la terrea” in the first act warmed the heart and thrilled the pulse with its versatility and quality. Her superb and lively singing of “Saper Vorreste” in the last act was super. I googled the legendary soprano Luisa Tetrazzini (1871-1940) whose marvelous gravity defying coloratura excesses were unrivaled. Google her 1909 and 1911 versions. Ms. Lazyan really sparkled in this role. The late great Francis Robinson, Metropolitan Opera press manager and Caruso biographer, once said he  would have loved to see the very rotund Tetrazzini as Oscar with her enormous girth and her legs wrapped in delicate ribbons. Ah, opera legends! Ms. Lazyan was also a fine actress and she gave bite, might and was so right as Oscar.

Riccardo after being stabbed at the Masked Ball.  Photo by Jay Gould

Ulrica the fortune teller, was played by Sarah Knott who was very striking in appearance and was truly witch like. She was more witch than bitch and her warnings fell on deaf ears. Her large bubbling cauldron led her to singing “Re dell’ abisso affrettati ” which was ominous and all hallows eve like and genuinely scary. Ms. Knott’s deep lows were subterranean as if conjuring the ghost of all things evil. Her final “Silencio!” came from the bowels of the earth as well as the vowels necessary to project. The effect is sheer magic. The legendary Marion Anderson (1897-1993) broke the color barrier at the Metropolitan Opera near the end of her illustrious career by singing Ulrica in Un Il Ballo un Maschera. (With Richard Tucker and Leonard Warren) in 1955. She opened the door for such greats as Leontyne Price, Martina Arroyo and others.

Riccardo dying at the hands of Renato, his best friend with Oscar the page behind him.  Photo by Jay Gould

The smaller roles were well portrayed and sung by bassos Nicholas Hay as Samuel and Gennady Vysotsky as Tom, conspirators and enemies of Riccardo. Their “Ha, ha, ha” arias were sung with relish. Jonathan Fox Powers, was Silvano a sailor and former New York City Opera tenor Roger Ohlsen was the Head Judge and skilled  baritone Thomas Geib was Amelia’s butler.

Robert Garner, Elizabeth Perryman & José Heredia
Photo by Judy Pantano

Douglas Martin, conductor and music director, brought the music to volcanic climaxes and heel kicking sensuality. The musicians worked hard and very skillfully to bring out the richness and drama of this score. The melodic output was opera comique and opera drama. Kudos to Jeffrey Kautz on tympani, so vital to the climaxes and our friend Scott Jackson Wiley on the horn. Scott is also a well known conductor, master of Spanish guitar and a Renaissance man.

Susan Morton, chorus master, brought the superb chorus to glory absolute with its full throated singing of “Cor si grande e generoso” before “Addio per sempre” in the last act. I recall the Roger Shaw Chorale in the recorded 1954 Un Ballo by the iconic and magnificent conductor Arturo Toscanini (1867-1957) with the NBC Symphony with famed tenor Jan Peerce, soprano Herva Nelli and great Brooklyn baritone Robert Merrill. The Roger Shaw Chorale brought tears to the eyes with the full voiced angelic sound as did Susan Morton and choristers at the Amore opera.

Stage Director Nathan Hull & Guest Connie Chen
Photo by Judy Pantano

Nathan Hull’s stage direction was like a great work of architecture; everyone in place with ease, visible and vivid. The wigs by Mary Rice were wondrous.The ingenious  Richard Cerullo from the original Amato Opera was in charge of the scenic design which was regal and ornate but absolutely accurate. The costumes were majestic, courtesy of Anthony Amato’s largesse and Robin Porter Van Sise. Plaudits to Duane Pagano, Lighting Director and Scenic Painter and Elias Cruz whose murals are captivating. The masks at the masquerade were colorful and eye catching, thanks to Allegra Durante’s mask design. The bravos and cheers were part of the era of good feeling inspired by such a grand opera evening.  

All of the artists received ovations from the wildly  appreciative audience. Our friend, financial adviser and opera lover Connie Chen who joined us, will be spending some time in Europe visiting opera in legendary places. To quote her, “But what could I see that is better than the Amore Opera right here and now?”

Tamie Laurance, José Heredia, Nino Pantano, Connie Chen & Judy Pantano

We congratulated vocal coach Tamie Laurance on the splendid performance of her student/protégé tenor José Heredia. We felt that we were present at the creation.

Here’s to the  next season and bravo to Nathan Hull and all at the amazing Amore opera and of course, Viva Verdi!

New York OperaFest Honors Ira Siff

New York OperaFest 2019 Festival Preview Concert honoring Ira Siff was presented on the evening of Monday, April 29th at the National Opera Center located at 330 Seventh Avenue in New York City. Vincent Covatto, Senior Manager, Organizational Membership, introduced the program for the evening.

I was exhausted from our being honored the day before by Opera Index and all the activities therein with fans, friends and family. It was also my first day of therapy for a back ailment. I was kvetching and schlepping, whining and complaining ( 4 percent Jewish DNA ) when we sat in our seats. A few hours later I was yacking and munching on goodies like an adrenalin filled teenager. Such is the power of opera, such is the brilliance of Ira Siff.   

Vincent Covatto, Senior Manager, Organizational Membership
Photo by Heather Bobeck

The first selection was “Udiste? Come albeggi” from Il Trovatore by Giuseppe Verdi. Alexis Cregger’s impressive soprano with Nathan Matticks’s vibrant baritone, made for a dynamic duo. Count Di Luna and his wannabe-lust for Leonora was dramatically demonstrated in this exciting duet. Ms. Cregger has a voluptuous sound with some gorgeous highs and exciting depth to her voice. Mr. Matticks captured Di Luna’s great love with its insistent manly sound and compelling high notes. We recently saw a brilliant Il Trovatore with the Regina Opera featuring these two special singers in Brooklyn’s Sunset Park at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church. The vocal hors d’oeuvres was so tantalizing we had to go for the whole meal. Dmitry Glivinsky was the exciting pianist from the Regina Opera.

Soprano Alexis Cregger & Baritone Nathan Matticks
Photo by Heather Bobeck

Next was an Excerpt from Patience and Sarah (Wende Persons/Paula Kimper featuring Katherine Robinson soprano; Markos Simopoulos baritone; Katarina Wilson, mezzo soprano; and Giordana Fiori, pianist. This mood inducing work was a good source for drama and vocal seduction. Katherine Robinson had a lustrous soprano with flexibility and strength, Mr. Simoupolos a manly thrust with sparkle and Katarina Wilson, a sensual mezzo soprano that blended with her vocal physicality. Giordana Fiori who is from Rome, Italy, was ablaze in her red outfit and played piano with intensity and grace. The Hunter Opera Theater had some stellar performers to show us.

Interlude” from The Impossible She by Daniel Thomas Davis featured baritone Robert Maril and Christopher Wilson on the piano. This fine excerpt was adroitly sung by Robert Maril whose haunting voice surely must be blessed by the late great Brooklyn baritone of Metropolitan Opera fame, Robert Merrill. Christopher Wilson’s pianistic versatility matched this introspective piece which, while not exactly Iago’s credo from Verdi’s Otello, nonetheless had a power all its own. This was from RHYMES WITH OPERA.

Bass Nathan Baer. Photo by Heather Bobeck

Excerpt from The Constitution, A Secular Oratorio by Benjamin Yarmolinsky, was with Nathan Baer, bass and Dmitry Glivinsky on piano. Mr. Baer has a mood provoking, expressive bass with impressive undertones like a rumble of thunder. His Grant Wood countenance sets the mood for this piece, which is retained because of its loneliness and conversational oomph ah like a Lincoln photo. This by Brooklyn’s brilliant Vertical Player Repertory who dazzled the world with its production of Puccini’s IL Tabarro on a barge on the Red Hook pier several years ago.

Pianist Dmitry Glivinsky.  Photo by Heather Bobeck

Parle-moi de ma mère” from La Tragedie de Carmen was by Meilhac/Bizet. Matthew Pearce, tenor; Lara Secord Haid, soprano; with Jiannan Cheng, on piano of City Lyric Opera. Mr. Pearce has a caressing tenor that is balanced and nuanced. Ms. Haid, a lyrical pure sound of great beauty with angelic high notes that linger in one’s psyche. Her kissing Don José touched one deeply. Their vocal blend was evocative of the greats in the past. His lovely softening of the voice at the end was of golden age quality. Ms. Haid’s love for Don José was present in her outstanding purity of tone. Enrico Caruso and Frances Alda made a recording of this that one can google on the Internet and The Carmen film by Cecil B. DeMille 1915 featured the great Met soprano Geraldine Farrar that deserves viewing. When Farrar came back to the Met after her film, she roughed Enrico Caruso up and punched a chorus girl. Caruso threatened to never sing with her again but they made up. Huge tenor James McCracken was a surprisingly physical Don Jose and used much pianissimo in his “Flower song.” City Lyric Opera deserves high praise for this tantalizing excerpt and wonderful singers.

Honoree Ira Siff & Peter Szep, Conductor Executive Producer of Indie Opera Podcast
Photo by Heather Bobeck

A brief film of Ira Siff as Mme. Vera Galupe-Borszkh singing Vissi D’arte from Tosca and Ho jo to ho! from Die Walküre was hilarious and breathtaking. I told friends later that the three hands I kissed of great divas was Mary Garden, lecturing on her autobiography at Brooklyn Academy of Music in 1951, Maria Jeritza at 90 plus at a Carnegie Hall Richard Tucker gala and Ira Siff as Mme. Vera Galupe-Borszkh at the National Arts Club after a hilarious Azucena excerpt from Il Trovatore.

Ira Siff gave a witty speech about his wanting to be in opera and the reactions of his mother and father. He did very well and his mother bragged to her friends in Florida poolside when he got good reviews on Mme. Vera Galupe-Borszkh. The New York Opera Awards service award was based on his indelible impact as a performer, commentator, director, teacher and Artistic Director of La Gran Scena.

L-R-Giordana Fiori, pianist; Noby Ishida, conductor; Katherine Robinson, Markos Simopoulos, Katarina Wilson. Photo by Heather Bobeck

The concert then resumed with “In peace I have found my image” from Owen Wingrave (Piper/Britten) Robert Balonek, baritone James Landau, piano, of the little Opera theatre of ny gave a powerful piece, almost a soliloquy. Mr. Balonek was Falstaffian in his delivery and versatility and gave us a non brittle Britten that was introspective with a touch of irony. We saw Owen Wingrave and our grandson Luciano was one of four choristers from The Little Church Around the Corner who appeared in this production featuring the gifted Mr. Balonek.

The program ended with an excerpt from After Stonewall with Devony Smith, soprano and Michael Barret on piano from the New York Festival of Song. Ms. Smith sang with conviction, defiance and compassion. Her soprano more steely than Puccinian, her goal not tears, but strength and going forward. Michael Barret was her accommodating and gracious accompanist. From the New York Festival of Song.

Joseph Burke was the effervescent stage manager and we met Vincent Covatto from the Executive Committee in the elevator.

At the sumptuous reception afterwards it was nice to chat with Ira’s partner Hans-Pieter Heijnis whose cabaret act has been so beautifully received. The Flying Dutchman (No Wagner) was brilliantly funny and a new version is set to overtake us soon. Hans-Peter made a wonderful video for Ira’s mother Jean on the occasion of her 100th birthday in 2011. He sang a superb version of “For You Alone,” which was out in 1911 and also was iconic tenor Enrico Caruso’s first recording in English.

A wonderful surprise was to see Francine Garber with her Regina Opera shirt, from the Regina Opera in Brooklyn, soon to be celebrating its 50th year of opera. Nice to see multi-talented and vibrant Judith Barnes from The Vertical Player Repertory in Brooklyn there also. Anna Tonna, a now internationally acclaimed mezzo soprano suddenly popped up into view. Anna has been doing successful Malibran and Rossini concerts in Spain and will sing at the idyllic Marcella Sembrich Museum in Bolton Landing in Lake George this summer. In attendance also was Scott Barnes, the renowned stage director and acting coach and tenor Neil Eddinger from the much missed New York City Opera. We enjoyed speaking to the singers and pianists and to the great man himself, Ira Siff.

Honoree Ira Siff. Photo by Heather Bobeck

Regina Opera Presents a Stirring Il Trovatore

Saturday afternoon on May 11th became one to remember always with the first of four Il Trovatore’s held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Auditorium in Sunset Park, Brooklyn. Il Trovatore premiered in Rome, Italy in 1853. The libretto is by Salvatore Cammarano and is one of three masterpieces composed by Giuseppe Verdi (1813-1901) in that time period – the other two were La Traviata and Rigoletto. Il Trovatore is set in 15th century Spain during a civil war between the provinces after a play by Antonio García Gutiérrez.

Ferrando (Adam Cioffari, center) tells the soldiers about Azucena’s mother’s horrific death. Photo by Marianna Coleman

Conductor Gregory Ortega stepped to the podium and the opera began. A few vibrant, heavy chords and the curtain rose with Ferrando (Captain of the Guard) telling the story of the Gypsy (“Udite, udite”) to his rapt and horrified men.  Adam Cioffari had a powerful and vibrant basso voice that, coupled with precision and dramatic flair, made for a very strong opening to the opera. Immortal basso Ezio Pinza (1892-1957) made a recording of this and it was like a storytellers passage to those who heard it. Cioffari continues a great tradition.

The young lovers Leonora (Alexis Cregger, left) and Troubador, Manrico (Christopher Trapani, right). Photo by Hannah Stampleman

Count di Luna and Manrico are sworn enemies and both are in love with Leonora, the Queen’s lady in waiting. Manrico’s “Mother” is Azucena. In a rage over her own Mother’s death at the stake for witchcraft, ordered by the prior Count di Luna, Azucena kidnapped the Count di Luna’s baby.  However, crazed, Azucena threw her own baby into the fire instead of the royal baby, and raised Manrico as her own. Manrico is the troubador who serenades Leonora and arouses the jealous fury of the current Count di Luna. Di Luna’s singing of “Il trovator – io fremo” (The Troubador – I am trembling!)  

Azucena (Lara Tillotson, far left) describes the horrific scene in which she avenges her mother’s death by throwing the previous Count’s baby into a fire. Photo by Steven Pisano

Manrico, the Troubador, was rising tenor Christopher Trapani.  Mr. Trapani has a voice that is even in quality, gathers more freedom in the upper registers and is compelling in the middle and lower registers. His rhapsodic singing of “Ah! si ben mio”  in Act Three Scene Two revealed a first class tenor at his best with finely sung melody: thrilling, passionate, lyrical passages, superb legato, and an impassioned finale. Some trills added to the refined outpouring, one of the best in memory. This was followed by  “Di quella pira” which was sung with fury, fire and brimstone culminating with two superbly hit and held high C’s. “Non son tuo figlio” with Azucena in Verdian harmony. I was fortunate to see and hear magnificent tenor Franco Corelli as a superb and dashing Manrico, soprano Zinka Milanov as a marvelous Leonora, and the brilliant Leonard Warren as Count di Luna. I recall Fedora Barbieri as Azucena and Fiorenza Cossotto in some other performance. The Regina Opera performance was very satisfying on every level. Great singers of the past echoed in their superb voices.  

Leonora (left) & her attendant Ines (Aida Carducci). Photo by Steven Pisano

Leonora, the Queen’s lady-in-waiting was sung by  soprano Alexis Cregger. Her performance as Leonora was like a time capsule transferring me to the old Met in its golden age. Ms. Cregger sings with beauty of tone sudden optional high notes that thrill and a flowing legato that makes one float in ecstasy. Her superb singing of  “Tacea la notte placida” and its cabaletta evoked Met divas Zinka Milanov and Montserrat Caballé in its soaring and lyrical outbursts (Act One Scene Two) and her stunningly beautiful Act Four aria “D’amor sull’ali rosee” ravished the ear of the listener. Her ascending notes and floating “highs” plus her interpolated highs were like extra scoops of ice cream for a sweet deprived opera kid.  Ms. Cregger’s duet with di Luna, “Mira, di acerbe lagrime” and “Vivrà! contende il giubilo”, was thrilling. Her “Miserere” duet with Manrico as a group of monks marched by was heavenly. As a youth, I listened to immortal tenor Enrico Caruso and Mme. Frances Alda sing “Miserere” on an old 78 recording. Caruso sang Il Trovatore at the MetOpera in 1906 and his recording of “Di quella pira” is a sensation as is his “Ah! si ben mio”.  Ms. Creggar’s death scene was beautifully done, evoking great sympathy. Alexis Cregger has shown the world her beautiful Leonora – she is a blessing.

Leonora escaping advances by Count Di Luna. Photo by Steven Pisano

Count di Luna was robustly and brilliantly sung by baritone Nathan Matticks. His sublime singing of “Il balen del suo sorriso” was perhaps the opposite of the great Leonard Warren’s heavenly lyrical outpourings; but Matticks’ di Luna was more inherently evil, and the great love that is the melody of this aria was more obsessive. Mr. Matticks dark Iago-like passion, was bordering on dangerous. A truly exciting di Luna. When Manrico is beheaded and Azucena tells him he just killed his own  brother, Count di Luna says in horror “E vivo encore”- (and still I live) the last line of this opera.

Azucena Avenged.  Photo by Steven Pisano

Azucena, a gypsy was sung by Lara Michole Tillotson.  Her mezzo-soprano had tremendous beauty and some stunning upper register notes that made us all heaven bound with burnished lows that made us see the dark past she endured. “Stride la vampa!” was magnificently sung, and her cries of “Figlio Mio” were emotionally shattering. Her final duet with Manrico, “Ai nostri monti” was pure and full of longing. Her laughter after singing that her Mother is now avenged was like a female Mephisto.

Manrico, the troubador,  Christopher Trapani finds Leonora (Alexis Cregger,) who has taken poison rather than marry Count Di Luna.   Photo by Steven Pisano 

Leonora’s attendant Ines, was sung by Aida Carducci, who evoked the proper concern and sympathy for her lady. Her warm soprano was indicative of good potential, and she was really a solid and vital  singer.
Chance Polic was an able and dependable Lieutenant to Manrico. His strong tenor was impressive.      

Count di Luna (Nathan Matticks,) finds Leonora (Alexis Cregger,) dead from poison. Photo by Cameron Smith

Baritone Rick Agster as an old Gypsy sang with finesse and flair and tenor Andrew Watt made his mark as a messenger.

The Chorus sang with warm friendly and spirited tone and it was so nice to see outstanding chorister Cathy Greco among the gypsies.

Conductor Maestro Gregory Ortega got excellent results from the 33 splendid musicians in the Regina Orchestra. The gypsy song of the Anvil Chorus  aroused the audience with its iconic familiarity. Azucena’s themes were heightened by the horror ever lurking in the music. Kudos to chimes player, percussionist Miguel Tepale, and to Concertmaster Christopher Joyal.  Bravi to all the musicians and Maestro Ortega for this glorious music of Giuseppe Verdi.

Linda Lehr, the Stage director and Set designer, gave Il Trovatore’s great characters room to maneuver, threaten, fight, love and die with clear focus. The “Miserere” was so impressive visually and vocally, that the image is retained in my mind. The fight scenes were right out of some MGM spectacular.

Rob Aronowitz was the superb fight choreographer and the outstanding duel and armor scenes stood out with their muscle flexing swordplay. Ms. Lehr almost brought the late British actor Basil Rathbone back for some Robin Hood villainous swordplay. I once saw Basil Rathbone hailing a cab as part of the crowd of opera goers, in front of the Metropolitan Opera with his deep unforgettable voice calling “Taxi, Taxi.”

The costumes by Marcia C. Kresge were perfection. Leonora’s gowns were magical and Count Di Luna’s outfits regal. The gypsies were colorful and Manrico heroic. Kudos to Make-up and Wig Artist Saori Morris.

So nice to see Regina Opera’s President Francine Garber-Cohen; Executive Vice President Linda Cantoni; Treasurer Joseph Delfausse; Elena Jannicelli-Sandella, Vice President;  and Box Office volunteer Marlene Ventimiglia, who keep us all comfortable and seated. Our group went to Casa Vieja Restaurant nearby for a lovely and lively Mexican dinner. Sunset Park is ablaze with hope and promise!

This is the last opera of the Regina Opera’s 49th season. We look forward to the glorious 50th upcoming season.

Gracie Square Hospital’s 60th Anniversary Celebration

On the evening of Thursday, May 2nd, Gracie Square Hospital’s held its 60th Anniversary Celebration at the St. Regis Hotel in New York City. The hospital is located on the Upper East Side and was founded by Cynthia, Richard and Lawrence of the Zirinsky family in 1959. 

Left to right: Philip J. Wilner, MD, Bill Zirinsky, Susan Zirinsky,  John Zirinsky, David A. Wyman, MPA Gracie Square Hospital’s 60th Anniversary Celebration. Photo by Eve Vagg

David A. Wyman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Gracie Square Hospital, spoke at the reception and he mentioned that since 1959 the Hospital’s main focus is to be patient centered to alleviate behavioral health issues and give peace of mind towards recovery. That is the enduring legacy of the Zirinsky family, who made a donation of one million dollars to the institution.

Dr. Steven J. Corwin, President and Chief Executive Officer of New York-Presbyterian Hospital, lauded the great contributions of the Zirinsky family for four generations, and discussed the importance of treating mental health. One out of five Americans are touched by mental health disorders.

A video presentation showing the holistic approach of compassionate health care the patients receive and the tremendous humanitarian assistance of the Zirinsky family was well received.

Susan Zirinsky, President and Senior Executive Producer of CBS News spoke of her mother, Cynthia Zirinsky, who because of illness could not attend. She said, “she is my hero, Mother we salute you. We are in awe of you and your belief that where medical skills and warm hearted care bring peace of mind.”

The closing remarks were spoken by Dr. Philip J. Wilner, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of New York-Presbyterian Hospital Westchester Division and Chairman of the Board and Gracie Square Hospital.

How mental illness and its painful interruptions to a productive life were made vivid by the reading of a letter to David Wyman. The letter described the daughter of co-founder Lawrence Zirinsky – a fun-loving girl who was lively but dealt with sporadic issues of bipolar depression.  Founder Lawrence Zirinsky’s sons, John Zirinsky and Bill Zirinsky were also honored for the philanthropic support and were the proud recipients of “Champions” awards.  

Richard Fung, Marcelo & Alexei Remizov, Cesare Santeramo & honoree Dr. Robert J. Campbell.   Photo by Judy Pantano

Two other awardees were present. Lorinda P. de Roulet who has been on the Board of Trustees of Gracie Square Hospital since 1992, and a former President of the New York Mets from 1975 through 1980. She was the first woman to direct the day-to-day operations of a Major League Baseball franchise. Lorinda is the catalyst for creating a culture of philanthropy. She donated towards the Gracie Hospital’s Patient Rooftop Garden October 4, 2018 which opened with much fanfare and pride. Lorinda founded the Patrina Foundation, which supports education and social services for women.

Sachi Liebergesell, Dr. Robert Campbell, Cesare Santeramo & Jolana Blau. Photo by Judy Pantano

Robert Campbell M.D. KCSJ was Chief Medical Director of Gracie Square Hospital from 1977 through 2006. He is an advocate, educator, writer, spokesperson and scholar. Both he and his life partner since 1968, noted tenor and entrepreneur Sir Cesare Santeramo, were involved at Gracie Square as trusted advisers and faithful contributors, from 1953 through 2004. Dr. Campbell edited Campbell’s Psychiatric Dictionary known as the “Bible” of the mental health field. Dr. Campbell is a pioneer in Psychiatry and created newfound opportunities to improve the lives of those treated. We were happy to be in his presence for this award.

Dr. Jose Vito, Alexei Remizov, Maestro Eve Queler, Laura Scheuer, Joan Rosasco & Luna Kaufman (seated). Photo by Judy Pantano

We thank Cesare Santeramo, formerly a tenor of renown, our gracious host for allowing us this inside view that’s “On the side of the Angels,” a number sung in the musical Fiorello. A bit of Jeopardy type trivia, Fiorello La Guardia was the first New York City Mayor to occupy Gracie Mansion. (1942)  

The reception was as one would want in so splendid a setting. We were with our esteemed and dapper host tenor Cesare Santeramo and his other guests: pioneer conductor Eve Queler (Opera Orchestra of New York), Holocaust survivors Luna Kaufman, author and Jolana Blau, from Elysium-between two continents, Sachi Liebergesell, formerly President of the Licia Albanese-Puccini Foundation, noted baritone Mark Watson, fellow opera lovers Marcelo and Alexei Remizov, Dr. Jose Vito and Richard Fung. We also spotted Edna Greenwich and Dwight Owsley from OperaExposures among the revelers.

Edna Greenwich, Dwight Owsley & Judy Pantano

The delicious risotto with mushrooms and washed down with Italian sparkling water or Procesco added to the festive and joyful mood. It was nice to speak with so many proud Zirinsky’s. My wife Judy, had a nice chat with Susan Zirinsky, daughter of founder Cynthia Zirinsky. Susan is also President and Senior Executive Producer of CBS News where Judy’s father, Joseph Zigman, was Associate Producer on the CBS News with Walter Cronkrite. Susan checked it all out online and was fascinated with the history and we all took a selfie.

Judy Pantano, Susan Zirinsky & Nino Pantano
(A selfie taken by Susan Zirinsky)

The evening ended with some rain outside. What I expected to be a golden coach was an Access-A-Ride taxi-but deep inside we felt it was a ball, with lovely people and a great four generation family of Gracie Square Hospital that gives love and care to those in need.

Elysium – between two Continents Celebrates 32nd Annual Erwin Piscator Award Ceremony

Tuesday, April 2nd was a sterling event at New York City’s famed Lotos Club. The 32nd annual Erwin Piscator Award from Elysium – between two Continents made this recent Tuesday, a truly “Good News Day.” What greater joy on an April morning is to get ready for a day that like the new month, radiates hope and the warmth of spring with Easter and Passover keeping home, hearth and hearts warm and loving.

As I type this, Classic Arts Showcase is playing a video of the great and beautiful soprano Anna Moffo singing Lucia. Ms. Moffo was an honoree in 2003 and a great friend to Elysium. I recall a lovely evening honoring Ms. Moffo with Gregory H. von Leïtis and Michael Lahr. So many beautiful flowers blooming through the efforts of Elysium and the inspiration of Erwin Piscator that “Art only achieves its purpose when it contributes to the improvement of man.”

Michael Lahr, Chairman of the Erwin Piscator Award.
Photo by John Harris

Michael Lahr, Chairman of the Erwin Piscator Awards Committee welcomed all. When we were comfortably seated for the ceremony, soprano Alexis Rodda sang the “An die Freude.” (“Ode to Joy.”) Her full rich and resonant soprano sang with abandon. The composer was Franz Schubert with a text by Friedrich Schiller. Her able and dedicated piano accompanist was Dan Franklin Smith. Ms. Rodda also sang “Porgi, amor,” from Mozart’s Le Nozze di Figaro with libretto by Lorenzo Da Ponte (1749-1838) who was a Venetian born Italian Jew, later priest, pianist in a bordello, then chief poet in Vienna, and in old age, impresario and professor of Italian culture at Columbia University and friend of Clement Clark Moore. Read his brilliant autobiography. Can you imagine Mozart’s librettist organizing Mozart’s Don Giovanni on Leonard Street in Manhattan? (Recently named Lorenzo Da Ponte Way)  

From left: Louise Kerz Hirschfeld, Andre Bishop, Helga Rabl-Stadler. Photo by John Harris.

The mission of Elysium – between two continents is “to foster artistic and academic dialogue, creative and educational exchange and mutual friendship between the United States of America and Europe. By means of art, we fight against discrimination, racism, hate, anti-Semitism and forgetting or trivializing the Holocaust.”

Gregorij H. von Leïtis, Founder and Artistic Director, then also welcomed all to the event assisted by the radiant Heather Randall. Her much loved husband was esteemed actor Tony Randall, who was also a great opera lover. According to author Mary Jane Phillips Matz, Randall was a great admirer of the late American Verdi baritone Leonard Warren. Warren’s special sound still haunts the memory. Tony Randall’s comments about Warren are on the back cover of Ms. Matz’s biography of the Bronx born baritone Leonard Warren (Amadeus Press) who died tragically onstage at the Metropolitan Opera in La Forza del Destino in 1960.Tony Randall wrote the forward as well.

Merle Kailas (left) and Heather Randall. Photo by John Harris

Daniel Kehlmann, known for his play The Mentor and his novel You Should Have Left, currently being adapted to a movie with Kevin Bacon and Amanda Seyfried. Mr. Kehlmann spoke of art and writing in a search for truth and how Elysium plays such an important role in its quest for a world of creativity and tranquility. Mr. Kehlmann then introduced Ayad Akhtar and Gregory H. von Leïtis presented the Erwin Piscator award to Ayad Akhtar for his highly topical and political literary oeuvre. As a playwright, novelist and screenwriter, Ayad Akhtar explores the major themes of our time: economics, immigration, identity, and in particular the American and Muslim experience. He encourages his audience and readers to tackle these big problems and the looming questions that arise from them. Mr. Akhtar accepted his award with a request for more understanding in a world that remembers past grievances but opens doors of enlightenment leading to understanding.

From left: Gregorij von Leitis, Ayad Akhtar, Daniel Kehlmann. Photo by John Harris

Ismar Schorsch in his remarks, made a plea for reconciliation. He is the Chancellor Emeritus of the Jewish Theological Seminary and Herman Abramovitz Distinguished Service Professor of Jewish History. Rabbi Dr. Ismar Schorsch became recognized as one of the foremost spokespersons on a range of critical issues. The presentation was then made by Gregorij H. von Leïtis to Katherine Goldsmith. Ms. Goldsmith was raised in Greenwich Village and attended New York City public schools before moving to Cambridge, Massachusetts. There she continued to paint and played the flute for a small orchestra. Her husband Clifford Goldsmith was a businessman and a devoted parent and philanthropist. He co-founded the Corinne Goldsmith Dickinson Center for Multiple Sclerosis at Mount Sinai in New York named for his daughter who died of the disease. He worked tirelessly for multiple sclerosis related diseases and served as Chairman of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Throughout his lifetime, he and his wife Katherine, devoted their energies to causes in the field of healthcare, education, the arts and Jewish organizations. Elysium proudly presented the Erwin Piscator Award 2019 – in memory of Maria Ley Piscator (wife of Erwin Piscator) to Katherine and the late Clifford Goldsmith.

From left: Gregorij von Leitis, Katherine Goldsmith, Ismar Schorsch. Photo by John Harris.

Michael Haider has a PhD in History (University of Vienna) and is now Director of the Austrian Cultural Forum in New York City and is closely associated with the Austrian theatre scene. He spoke of the strong tradition of Austrian culture and of course the festivals in Salzburg. When the great conductor Bruno Walter’s doorbell rang, his maid trembled at the handsome man behind the ring, and Maestro Walter, looking at her reaction exclaimed, “I think we have found our Don Giovanni.” Recordings of “live” performances with Bruno Walter and Ezio Pinza in Le Nozze di Figaro (April 19,1937) still are available and are a symbol of the glory that was. The great Danish heldentenor Lauritz Melchior refused to let the Nazi’s use his estate in Germany. Hitler, furious, had Goebbels look up the Melchior family tree, which had both Jewish and Lutheran Melchiors, so he seized the property and Melchior left. Arturo Toscanini no longer went to Salzburg festivals and settled in the United States as war clouds thickened casting a dark shadow on the music world as well. Dr. Helga Rabl-Stadler received the Erwin Piscator Life Achievement Award 2019 from Elysium-between two continents for her enormous longtime commitment to foster the arts as President of the Salzburg Festival. It is known worldwide as one of the most prominent festivals for performing arts and music.

From left: Gregorij von Leitis, Helga Rabl-Stadler, Michael Haider. Photo by John Harris

The final selection by soprano Alexis Rodda was “What Good Would the Moon Be?” from “Street Scene” by Kurt Weill with lyrics by Langston Hughes. “What good would the moon be unless the right one shared its beams. What good would dreams come true be if love wasn’t in those dreams.” Thank you Alexis, beautifully done and kudos to pianist Dan Franklin Smith.   

From left: Joel Bell, Marifé Hernandez, Joseph Bartning, Executive Director of
the Salzburg Festival Society, Alexandra Kauka, Sterling Morton Hamill. Photo by John Harris

A superb luncheon followed compliments to Executive Chef Raymond Hollanda. And you guessed it – Nino loved his Branzino and vino! It was so nice to see so many Consul Generals from Austria, Czech and Vienna. (Manhattan School of Music) Special thanks to Sir Cesare Santeramo a former awardee (Honorary Award 2015) with his companion the much loved, Dr. Robert Campbell, (who regrettably, was unable to attend) for being our charming and affable host. We enjoyed meeting Betsy and David Silverman and had an interesting talk about our favorite opera, Tosca. The Luncheon Committee of Jolana Blau Chairperson, Heather Randall, Dr. Robert J. Campbell, Sir Cesare Santeramo, Lya Friedrich Pfeifer, Vice Chairpersons, Paul and Kristina Falke, Dr. Hans-Michael and Almut Giesen and Stefan and Sylveli Hemmerle deserved plaudits for their fine work.

From Left: Ulrike Sych, president of the University for Music and Performing
Arts Vienna, Joseph Pfeifer, President of the Liederkranz Foundation, Miro Magloire, Lya Friedrich Pfeifer, President of the Max Kade Foundation, and Katja Wiesbrock Donovan, Chief Officer for Management and Programming of the German Academy New York. Photo by John Harris

As Chairman, Michael Lahr said at the end of the booklet, “Gregorij H. von Leïtis thank each of our honorees, our guests at today’s 32nd Erwin Piscator award luncheon, our many supporters, friends and colleagues who help us and are united with us in our endeavor to build bridges rather than walls, to facilitate dialogue and exchange, and create a better world, a world of friendship and respect, rather than hate and discrimination.”

Olaf Unsoeld & Jolana Blau.  Photo by Judy Pantano

One of my favorite American poets, Robert Frost (1874-1963) wrote “Mending Wall” which is quite à propos for the current times. “Something there is that doesn’t love a wall” says that all men stand united – no walls!  

Nino Pantano, Luna Kaufman & Cesare Santeramo.  Photo by Judy Pantano

Lastly, I quote Bertolt Brecht on Erwin Piscator. “Piscator is the greatest theatre man of all time. He will leave a legacy which we should use.”  Bravo all at Elysium – between two continents. Compliments to Gregorij H. von Leïtis and Michael Lahr who represent humanity at its finest.

Gerda Lissner Foundation Hosts Young Artist Vocal Concert

The Young Artist Vocal Institute Concert Series was established in 2019 to continue assisting and mentoring young artists with the financial support they need to pursue their craft and excel in the world of opera. The concert was being presented in lieu of the International Vocal Competition 2019. The series continues on April 26th and September 27th 2019. The event took place on Friday evening, March 29th at the elegant Liederkranz Foundation in New York City where Philipp Haberbauer is the General Manager.

Philipp Haberbauer – Liederkranz General Manager.
Photo by Judy Pantano

The Gerda Lissner Board of Directors and Board of Trustees consists of Stephen De Maio President, Michael A. Fornabaio Vice President and Treasurer, Cornelia A. Beigel, Secretary and Trustee, Karl Michaelis and Barbara Ann Testa,Trustees. (Ms. Testa  could not attend) Karl Michaelis announced that Stephen De Maio sends greetings to all and regrets not being able to attend.

Midge Woolsey of WQXR Radio and Channel 13 fame was the host of the evening. Ms. Woolsey works in the development of the concert series at Saint Thomas Church on 5th Avenue in New York City and on the advisory boards of the Martina Arroyo Foundation and Opera Index among others. Midge Woolsey mentioned how George Jellinek and his program “The Vocal Scene” motivated her to do what she does best. George Jellinek was truly a pioneer in the radio business and brought many listeners to WQXR for his wonderful work. His fabulous collection of recordings was motivational.

Host Midge Woolsey, Michael Pitocchi, Vartan Gabrielian, Timothy Renner, pianist Mikhail Hallak, Xiaotong Cao & Meghan Kasanders.  Photo by Judy Pantano

The concert began with baritone Timothy Renner, from the Academy of Vocal Arts and a pupil of Bill Schuman. Mr. Renner’s offering was of “Pierrot’s Tanzlied” from Die tote Stadt by Korngold whose Hollywood musical scores revealed a composer deserving of acclaim by an audience not just viewing a film. Mr. Renner is the possessor of a large baritone voice not quite suited for the refined elegance needed for this particular aria. His second selection was the “Petersburgian Song” by Sviridov brought back memories of opera and film baritone Nelson Eddy in Balalaika and what sounded like two glorious B flats. For beautiful Ilona Massey, Mr. Eddy’s glamorous co-star, the passion of his selection was vital. Mr. Renner really shined in this performance. His supreme singing was brought out by this rousing number.  


Maestro Eve Queler, Alfred & Christine Palladino, Michael Fornabaio, Eliane & Samuel Cavin. Photo by Judy Pantano

Vartan Gabrielian, bass-baritone (Curtis Institute of Music) sang Aleko’s Aria from Aleko by Rachmaninoff. His big cavernous sound overwhelmed and impressed but the more subtle aspects of this very young Rachmaninoff were lost in the thunder. His second number by Rachmaninoff, “Now is the Time” perhaps breaking free from Russian life for a nomadic Gypsy life is a wish of most who seek their Bali Hai but it was very well done and suited the beautiful depth of his voice to subterranean spheres.  

Arthur & Susan Stout, Faith Pleasanton & Robert Steiner. Photo by Judy Pantano

Soprano Meghan Kasanders, (The Julliard School) sang the aria of Donna Anna “Or sai chi l’onore” from Mozart’s Don Giovanni with a compelling timbre. There is an abundance of strong passionate singing. Ms. Kasander’s fulsome sumptuous soprano, has a treasure chest of rich tone and dramatic flair that keeps pulling me into a current that says I also want to hear her in Italian repertoire – Aida, Santuzza, Amelia, both Leonora’s. I want someone to open the floodgates for this voice of untapped pathos and passion. Her song, “Von ewiger Liebe” by Brahms showed the great composers creating a song for the heart from the heart. Ms. Kasanders caressed each note with a clarion call for love. As a lad, I recall “You’re the song angels sing” which was taken from Brahms and made into a popular song, sung by American film tenor Mario Lanza for the film Because You’re Mine. (1953) It is one of his best recordings and featured young and talented soprano Doretta Morrow. Both Lanza and Morrow, united at the end of the film, died young.

Margaret Grover, Marlene Astorga, Gloria Gari, Lou Barrella, Karl Michaelis & Nino Pantano. Photo by Judy Pantano

From the College of Performing Arts, Mannes School of Music and The New School, comes American bass-baritone Michael Pitocchi. Mr. Pitocchi sang “Vous qui faites” from Faust by Gounod. I love the rousing laughter in this aria and am always aware of the devil afoot. Mr. Pitocchi captured the devil’s rich tapestry of singing sarcasm and cruel infectious laughter. His rich basso and downward vocal excursions, took one right to hell and back. The 1953 film Tonight We Sing, featured the great Italian basso Ezio Pinza (1892-1957) as Russian basso legend Fyodor Chaliapin. (1873-1938) Pinza sings several scenes from Faust including the trio, with the voice of tenor Jan Peerce and soprano Roberta Peters. The great star of the MetOpera and South Pacific was in fresh voice at age 60 and sang “Vous qui faites” marvelously. Hopefully, Mr. Pitocchi will follow in his footsteps. Pitocchi’s song selection was “The Leaves Rustled Sadly” by a 19 year old Mussorgsky. A haunting plea from a lonely heart-Russian style. Mr. Pitocchi will, I am certain, fill the void today of a lack of great dark voices.

Michèle Classe, Joyce Greenberg & Jane Shaulis. Photo by Judy Pantano

From the Manhattan School of Music, Xiaotong Cao, soprano was the last in this exciting concert. Her aria was “Stridono Lassu” from Leoncavallo’s I Pagliacci. Her beautiful voice is full and rich yet flexible and light when needed. Her vocal palette is broad and colorful. Nedda wants to be free as a bird. Canio, an older clown rescued her and gave her a life. Nedda is bored and has a young lover and wants to be as free as a bird. The part calls for dexterity vocally and passion physically. One felt these two at work in Cao’s sizzling interpretation. Incidentally, the composer, Leoncavallo’s father, was the actual judge in the trial of Canio who murdered Nedda.   

Ms. Cao’s second selection was a song “Chere nuit” by Bachelet written for the great soprano Nellie Melba and a favorite of today’s great mezzo Susan Graham. It was sung with charm and sentiment.  

Diana Corto & Lawrence Jones . Photo by Judy Pantano

The pianist Mikhail Hallak was excellent. He played with a special passion which coupled with elegance was as good as a full orchestra!  Mr. Hallak is from the Young Artist Development Program of the Metropolitan Opera.

Midge Woolsey was a superb host and her introductions explained the selections with her lifelong experience and love for the subject. We had a brief chat and discussed theatre. When basso Pitocchi stood next to her I exclaimed,”Ah! Emile De Becque and Nellie Forbush.” I told Mr. Pitocchi how thrilled I was to see the great Ezio Pinza sing “Opera, Broadway and Hollywood” at Lewisohn Stadium in New York in 1951 before a crowd of 25,000 people and how he (Pitocchi) will restore the great basso tradition. Midge Woolsey told me that in college she wanted to be Nellie Forbush in South Pacific, but only the part of Bloody Mary was open. Surprisingly, Ezio Pinza recorded Bali Hai in 1949 and is now on the Internet. Technicians have played his recording with Juanita Hall, the original beloved Bloody Mary, making them sing a flawless and thrilling duet. People loved Nellie Forbush (Mary Martin) and adored Ezio Pinza (Emile) but they also were inspired by Juanita Hall as “Bloody Mary.”  

Reiko Osumi, Emily Hsiung, Michael Pitocchi & Jeanne Bosse. Photo by Judy Pantano

It was nice to chat with so many friends and opera lovers at the delicious reception: Jane Shaulis and Joe Gasperec from Opera Index, Glenn Morton from Classic Lyric Arts, Gloria Gari from The Giulio Gari Foundation, Maestro Eve Queler, whose new book entitled A View from the Podium has many brilliant anecdotes and photographs of her fabulous career, legendary dramatic soprano Elinor Ross and her artist son, Ross, mezzo-soprano Rosalind Elias looking as radiant as in her current profile in Opera News by Editor F. Paul Driscoll, opera lecturer Lou Barrella, Alfred and Christine Palladino, from the Columbus Citizens Foundation, Arthur and Susan Stout, French diction teacher, International Concerts Diana Corto and Lawrence Jones, export consultant Michèle and Anthony Classe, Joyce Greenberg and Ralph Petrarca, Samuel & Eliane Cavin, Reiko Osumi and countless others who support and love musical nights like these.

Maestro Eve Queler’s new book. Photo by Judy Pantano

All the best to these young singers, all of whom were given scholarship and stipends to provide for their careers. They will, all like Spring, make opera “reborn” for the next generation.