Q&A When did you start singing? When I was 6, in the chorus of my hometown in the Valle d’Aosta. A lady in my parish, Rita, invited me to sing and I was so happy... I looked forward to the rehearsals! When I was 16 I began to study at the conservatoire, and after that I met legendary baritone Giuseppe Valdengo, who became my voice teacher. Why did you start singing? I … [Read more...] about Federico Longhi answers the Gramilano Questionnaire… Singers’ Edition
Tim Burton
Nutcracker-lite at La Scala – très chic Casse-noisette from Geneva
What a disappointment was La Scala's new Nutcracker. A shimmering front-cloth announced "Lo schiaccianoci" as though written in the stars, Tchaikovsky's bewitching overture started and there was that Christmassy buzz of excitement... a feeling that only lasted five minutes or so. With the odd decision to have a narrative voice-over clash against the music - and saying nothing … [Read more...] about Nutcracker-lite at La Scala – très chic Casse-noisette from Geneva
French choreographer Philippe Decouflé is the writer-director behind the new Cirque du Soleil shoe ‘Iris’
This summer, the Montreal-based entertainment behemoth will be launching a planned 10-year residence at the Kodak Theater - home to the Oscar ceremony - where a posse of 75 acrobats, aerialists and clowns will perform Cirque's latest big-top extravaganza, the movie-themed "Iris." French choreographer Philippe Decouflé, head of the Paris-based contemporary dance company DCA … [Read more...] about French choreographer Philippe Decouflé is the writer-director behind the new Cirque du Soleil shoe ‘Iris’
Michael Gough, distinguished actor and Batman’s butler, dies at 94
Poised and distinguished-looking, with an eloquent speaking voice and a long-lipped sneer, Michael Gough deployed his talent for depicting seducers, serial killers and other well-bred villains to menacing effect. Although best known to international audiences as Batman's butler Alfred in the movie franchise, he appeared in numerous West End productions over 40 years. One of … [Read more...] about Michael Gough, distinguished actor and Batman’s butler, dies at 94
Alices everywhere from London to New York, from film to stage, from musical to ballet. Now in tartan…
Alices are popping out all over the place. Tim Burton is partly to blame for the latest batch with his Johnny Depp film Alice in Wonderland in 3D last year. Here in Italy there is an (awful) touring musical Alice nel Paese delle Meraviglie, opening on Broadway in a few days is Wonderland, and of course there is the current Christopher Wheeldon ballet at Covent Garden. But let's … [Read more...] about Alices everywhere from London to New York, from film to stage, from musical to ballet. Now in tartan…