Wozzup?

Wozzeck - Metropolitan Opera, 6 April 2011(season premiere)

The most moving moment in this brief evening came before a note had been played. As James Levine entered the pit for the first time in over a month, it seemed as if the cheers and applause might never stop. Still visibly suffering from the chronic back pain that sidelined him recently, the Met's revered maestro turned to acknowledge the audience with his hand over his heart. The scenario played out again at the end of the evening. Levine remained in the pit for his ovation, presumably too frail to ascend to the stage for a bow.

With such a display of genuine warmth and affection in mind, it would be wonderful to report that the revival of this 1997 production was equally memorable. But a week later, all that has stuck with me is the desperation in the voice and eyes of Waltraud Meier's extraordinary Marie, tearing up the stage, eclipsing all around her. If ever an opera deserved renaming it's this one.

   

  

 

 
 
 
 
Production photos (above): Metropolitan Opera

Curtain call photos (below):intermezzo.typepad.com