Opera

Lovingly reconstructed, this aspirational-fantasy story of Russian shtetl Jews emigrating to America is a fascinating period piece of great historical and cultural interest, as well as a robustly acted and brilliantly sung spectacle of theatrical joy.

Forceful, wrenching, and thought-provoking, 'Glory Denied' with a number of productions under its belt still deserves further exposure in our age of constant war, with the lessons of Vietnam yet to be learned. It should be considered one of the major operas of the 21st century so far.

Voices simulate the ringing of bells and the knocking-on of doors as effectively as they convey the desperation of foiled lovers, the comic scheming of the servant class, and the self-satisfied prancing of the smug.

Some critics disdained this production when it settled in Canada in 2012. But while in some respects it may confound, it feels honest, both musically and theatrically. Plus: Sumo wrestlers!

The brilliant lyric soprano's new CD highlights music by French composers of the Belle Époque along with Verdi and Puccini. Enter to win a copy from Blogcritics!

This spicy little production of two one-act operas provides a mini-survey of the the 'Susannah' composer's talents as he progressed from a gifted youngster to a mature artist with a sensibility very much his own.

'The Velvet Oratorio' is a celebration of The Velvet Revolution that took place in Czechoslovakia brought to the world stage by Vaclav Havel, the Civic Forum, students and the Czech people. It is enjoyable and humorous reminder of Havel's playful wit incorporating the complex and haunting music of a time of revolution, hope and lasting change. There is nothing more revelatory for us at this time to inspire us.

Copland Dust Bowl "folk opera" still feels fresh and interesting on its 60th anniversary in this impressive production from Chelsea Opera.

The Metropolitan Opera has yet again staged this piece, the latest in its series of Live in HD broadcasts of operas to theaters the world over.

A short new opera about abolitionist Sojourner Truth features fine voices and appealing music.