SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — An open-air theater surrounded by high desert vistas, the Santa Fe Opera is known as the place to watch the sun set while taking in a performance. The company prepared for opening night with stringent restrictions despite the availability of vaccines and the end of pandemic restrictions in New Mexico. Actors donned N-95 masks during rehearsals, struggling to catch their breath through the barriers as they belted out their lines. “There’s just a simple announcement that came over the speakers — ‘Good evening, welcome to the Santa Fe Opera’ — and then they go crazy,” said soprano Vanessa Vasquez, who sang the role of Countess Almaviva. In Santa Fe, a union organizer representing the orchestra said negotiations were surprisingly easy.

Source: thestar July 14, 2021 19:41 UTC