Strauss’ “Salome,” staged by British director Peter Hall, starred a nubile, mysterious American mezzo-soprano, Maria Ewing, who brought unfettered sexuality to the title role and stripped naked. No goodness comes from narcissism or sexual abuse of power in Strauss’ opera, but its orgiastic score ensures great entertainment. They expressed wonderfully theatrical deranged vulnerability, whereas the revival serves to reveal just how much underlying misogyny is at the center of Strauss’ opera. Kenneth Turan and Justin Chang chat about the 2017 Academy Awards, and which movie might win for best picture. Caption Grammys 2017: Best moments Highlights from the 2017 Grammy Awards at the Staples Center.

Source: Los Angeles Times February 20, 2017 00:00 UTC