The Russian government says it does not have the $880 million needed to pay for planned renovation work on the Bolshoi Theatre. “The Bolshoi, which has already closed for work meant to last three years, has been told to slash its costs significantly if it wants to proceed. But the project’s chief architect, Nikita Shangin, says he will walk out if the theatre does not get the money.”
Tag: 08.11.05
Baltimore And Alsop – An Issue Of Leadership?
The waves are still rolling from the Baltimore Symphony’s appointment of Marin Alsop as music director. “Ms. Alsop’s appointment is known to have been deeply controversial. If this is simply sexism, then it isn’t worth worrying about, as she will know how to ride it out. If it’s concern about a change in repertoire–Baltimore’s former conductor Yuri Temirkanov represented a very traditional outlook and Ms. Alsop champions a more diverse approach–then three cheers for the Baltimore board. But if it’s about the psychology of leadership, then this is a story the whole orchestra world will want to follow.”
The UK’s Great Year At The Movies
British movies did well at the UK box office last year, with admissions up sharply. Movie business was up to its highest level since 1972. Nearly a quarter of the films Brits saw were homegrown. But what exactly constitutes “Britishness”?
Edinburgh Fringe – Does The Money Add Up?
Has the Edinburgh Fringe become too expensive? It costs performers to stage their shows, and ticket prices are up. It all adds up to a lot of pressure to try to lure crowds… and that means taking fewer risks.
Maazel Cancels Concerts For Surgery
Conductor Lorin Maazel has canceled performances with the Sydney Symphony to have unexpected surgery. “Maazel withdrew as music director of an epic outdoor production of Carmen for the Seville International Music Festival last year due to emergency cataract surgery. The Sydney Symphony did not comment on whether his latest medical treatment involved similar problems, except to say that he was expected to make a full recovery.”