Yesterday, the radio opera was I Puritani by Vincenzo Bellini, AKA “The Swan of Catania” (where he was born.) You might say this opera was his “swan song,” as he died the same year it premiered, at the age of 33. I missed most of the first act – I set my alarm but forgot to activate it – but at least I didn’t miss the big mad scene, and even caught the first use of the melody from it. Elvira is very fragile – but if I were being pushed to marry a MAGA who was stalking me I might go a little crazy myself. Not that the Cavaliers were perfect – the British Civil War was between the Bad Guys and the Not Quite As Bad Guys. At least the Cavaliers were not killjoys. The Puritans, when they won, actually outlawed Christmas. But the I Puritani mad scene is IMO the most beautiful mad scene in all of opera – and there is a lot of competition. also, it was Queen Victoria’s favorite opera – for what that’s worth. On the positive side, at least the blog’s scheduling feature appears to be working again – at least it worked for yesterday. off to see Virgil now. Will check in upon return.<\/p>\n
Yes, I’m still a sucker for news about veterans<\/a>. Especially good news.<\/p>\n And I’m also a sucker for good news about young people<\/a> shouldering responsibility for community.<\/p>\n This is not new<\/a> and may not be current. If not – well, it was good while it lasted.<\/p>\n