Rigoletto, the main character in Verdi’s opera, is a jester with a hunchback. This got me thinking about my own posture. I’ve been slouching more lately and suspect I might have scoliosis, which runs in my family.
Recently, I went to see “Rigoletto” at the Santa Fe Opera with my friend Jordan Eddy. He’s an art critic and the director of Southwest Contemporary magazine. On the way, we chatted about how critics sometimes feel like jesters in the art world.
Critics have a unique role. They interpret art and performance, making connections that audiences might miss. Yet, they must balance their perspectives with the artist’s intentions. It’s like being both a performer and an audience member.
Interestingly, a recent survey showed that about 65% of people appreciate reviews before attending a show. This highlights the influence critics have and their responsibility in shaping public opinion.
The themes in “Rigoletto” resonate with many today. The story of betrayal and revenge feels relevant, especially in our rapidly changing world. As discussions of justice and morality continue to grow in society, operas like this remind us of timeless human emotions.
While we enjoyed the performance, discussions around it on social media indicated mixed reactions. Some viewers praised the powerful music, while others felt the story was outdated. This split illustrates how art can evoke a wide range of emotions, and it’s fascinating to witness diverse perspectives.
In comparing now to the past, we see that opera was once the pinnacle of entertainment. Today, though, it shares the stage with various forms like film and streaming. Yet, the power of live performance remains unmatched, drawing crowds to venues like the Santa Fe Opera.
Overall, attending “Rigoletto” deepened my appreciation for operatic art and its ability to reflect on our current lives. It’s a beautiful reminder of the power of storytelling through music.
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