Fred Plotkin

Carl Nielsen's opera "Maskarade" deserves wider recognition, writes Fred Plotkin. While the comedy often falls flat, "the music is appealing and original."

Projected titles, or surtitles, have been widely praised for making opera more accessible. But blogger Fred Plotkin questions whether they've improperly shifted the focus.

Should song recitalists stop providing printed translations? Blogger Fred Plotkin considers the vehemence of opinions over his recent article on the issue.

Stephanie Blythe began a recent recital with a startling announcement: there would be no printed texts or translations.

As the big opera houses conclude main seasons, smaller opera companies are rolling out their summer plans. Operavore blogger Fred Plotkin offers a selection of highlights.

Despite financial woes and the lingering effects of labor strife, there was a great deal to admire musically the past Met Opera season, writes Fred Plotkin.

A food-themed World's Fair is underway in Milan, Italy. Blogger Fred Plotkin considers the musical highs and lows, including new offerings at La Scala.

Despite Florence's history with opera, it is not widely popular with locals or visitors, writes Fred Plotkin. Recently, Italian politics brought new complications.

Henrik Ibsen's high-octane dramas and occasional comedies are the stuff of opera, writes Fred Plotkin. So why aren't there more adaptations?

A recent, bittersweet birthday party of an important European singer leads Fred Plotkin to consider the ways in which opera stars create extended circles of friends.

When should an opera production be retired and when should it be revisited and improved? Fred Plotkin gives Verdi's "Aida" a checkup.

There is a fair amount of screaming in opera, most of it written or implied in the music. But lately Fred Plotkin has heard two very unwelcome screams at the Met.

"If it is to the desert island that I must sail (and Wagner's 'Ring' has been disqualified), I would take Verdi’s 'Don Carlo' with me," writes Fred Plotkin.

Clones of Birgit Nilsson, Jussi Björling and other Swedish opera singers? You read it here first.

Sweden is the last Nordic country without a gleaming new opera house. Fred Plotkin considers whether this country renowned for its design can pull one off.

An interesting option to help nonprofit arts organizations with particular needs is through a state or federal lottery, writes Fred Plotkin. Here's why.

There are reasons why opera singers need practical shoes, from daunting stage steps to sexy legs and short tenors. Fred Plotkin considers the role of footwear in opera.

Is there a future for the New York City Opera or should it just be left to blessed memory? Blogger Fred Plotkin considers the current efforts to revive the company's name.

Anna Caterina Antonacci has had a thriving career in Europe but remains under the radar in the U.S. Blogger Fred Plotkin considers roles that would help her break through.

How do restaurant offerings at opera houses stack up? Fred Plotkin has a taste, and says that "the goal should be to eat festively, comfortably and to prepare for a special night."