Ep 18. The Opera House

The Great Performances episode titled The Opera House is a fascinating look at the history of one of America's most iconic cultural institutions: the Metropolitan Opera House. In this episode, viewers are taken on a journey through the 50-year history of the Met, from its early days as a grand architectural landmark to its current status as a world-renowned center for opera.

Narrated by actress Meryl Streep, The Opera House is an engaging and illuminating documentary that explores the impact that the Metropolitan Opera has had on both the world of opera and American culture. The film traces the history of the opera house from its opening night in September 1966 to the present day, through a combination of archival footage, photographs, and interviews with some of the biggest names in opera.

Apart from the star narration, the show features interviews with some of the major figures in the history of the Met, including legendary soprano Leontyne Price, former Met General Manager Joseph Volpe, and current Met Music Director Emeritus James Levine. Through their words and recollections, viewers gain insight into the inner workings of this iconic institution, including the challenges that came with maintaining a world-class opera company in a changing cultural landscape.

The Opera House is also a celebration of the Met's magnificent architecture, which is truly a work of art in its own right. The documentary showcases the building's grand foyer, main auditorium, and striking Chagall paintings, while also exploring the technical aspects of designing and maintaining such a complex architectural feat.

Additionally, the documentary examines the Met's repertoire and highlights some of the most memorable and influential performances in its history. Viewers get a glimpse at some of the creative talent behind these productions, including stage directors, set designers, and costume designers.

Throughout The Opera House, viewers are also given a sense of the cultural and social context in which the Metropolitan Opera has thrived. The documentary explores the evolving nature of opera as an art form and its place in American culture over the years, including the shifting demographics of its audience and the impact of technological developments such as the advent of television.

In summary, The Opera House is a compelling, informative, and visually stunning documentary that pays tribute to one of America’s most iconic cultural institutions. Whether you're a long-time opera fan, a lover of architecture, or simply interested in the history of American culture, this is an excellent episode of Great Performances to watch.