★★★★★Like the plot, in which the tenor accidentally shoots dead the father of the woman he loves (rarely a helpful move), Verdi’s monster raving loony opera of ill-fate, Catholic guilt and vengeance has itself acquired a reputation for smiting bad luck on performers. And, true to form, rumours abound about the Royal Opera’s new production. One or other of the stars wouldn’t turn up, it was said (they certainly weren’t all present for the dress rehearsal). They were even whispers that the director himself, Christof Loy, had not been the most assiduous in attending his own rehearsals. Sometimes, however, the force of destiny throws a bone to humanity, or at least that segment able to afford tickets soaring to £285 in the stalls, and a…

Source: The Times March 22, 2019 09:11 UTC