Opera
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REVIEW: Frederica von Stade is Riveting in ‘A Coffin in Egypt,’ an Opera Strong in Emotional Impact, Yet Lacking in Musical Variety
'A Coffin in Egypt' received its Chicago premiere Saturday night at the Harris Theater, with mezzo-soprano Frederica von Stade in the starring role. The new opera by Ricky Ian Gordon is enlivened by von Stade’s emotionally moving portrayal of a woman struggling to deal with her wealthy husband’s infidelity. EXCLUSIVE: R.B. Schlather on Handel's 'Orlando,' the Problem with New York City Space, Philip Glass' 'Penal Colony' and the Politics of Open Rehearsal Space
For all the bogus boilerplate about how classical music is dead or even well-intentioned words regarding how she can stay breathing, precious few--performers, ensembles and institutions--are actually doing anything to change both conversation and prognosis. Moreover, when it comes to remounting baroque opera in our digi-epoch, fewer still have the informed perspective, due diligence and, well, cojones to really make a difference. Save for one R.B. Schlather, of course.
