Friday, August 3, 2018

No Nukes is Good Nukes

The Metropolitan Opera reaches an agreement with its orchestra.
by Paul J. Pelkonen
This protest is fake news. Also its art is © Comedy Central and South Park.
Although there are no performances of the John Adams opera Doctor Atomic on the schedule of the Metropolitan Opera this season. opera goers at North America's busiest opera company don't have to worry about labor negotiations blowing up the 2018-19 season.



It was announced this morning that a temporary agreement has been reached between the opera company, the American Guild of Musical Artists (who represent singers and the chorus) and Local 802, which represents the musicians of the Metropolitan opera orchestra. These agreements will ensure that the opera season will go on as planned without the threat of a strike looming on the horizon.

The Metropolitan Opera will open its 2018 season on Sept. 24 with a new production of Camille Saint-Saëns' Biblical drama Samson et Dalila re-teaming Roberto Alagna and Elina Garança in the title roles. It will be swiftly followed by revivals of Aida and La bohème. The opening performance of Samson will be live-cast in Times Square for free.

Additionally, this month marks the return of the Met's extensive Live in HD festival, with operas like Elektra and Lulu making their broadcast debuts alongside more standard fare.

In coming weeks, expect a full preview of the Met season here on Superconductor, including new operas like Nico Muhly's Marnie and old favorites reimagined like Verdi's La Traviata.

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