Today marks the 143 rd Canada Day, and this year the nations sovereign, Queen Elizabeth II determined to appear. Whilst the Queen (who arrived by open landau with Prince Phillip) is actually on Parliament Hill proper, her personal standard replaces the Maple Leaf adorned flag of Canada. Parliament Hill is currently overrun with commoners who sport dogs, and baby carriages the size of Smart cars. Later this evening one can rest assured the fireworks display will be significant given the attendance of her Majesty.
COMMANDOpera conveys best regards to Canadians abroad, particularly those within the armed services overseas.
Lyric Opera Top Job Opens
Mr. William Mason, the General Director of the Lyric Opera has announced his intention to resign at the conclusion of the 2011 2012 season. The Chicago native has been with the Lyric Opera since 1962 when the house was under the rule of the inimitable Miss Carol Fox. COMMANDOpera is not taken aback by the news, however the void this creates must be carefully considered. Mr. Mason, a master at union relations, successfully steered the Lyric Opera through exceedingly difficult moments, with his sterling character an example of what top tier directorship is all about.
Mr. Richard Kiphart, Lyric Opera’s Board President and CEO has directed that a search committee be established immediately under the direction of Mr. Kenneth Pigott, executive vice president of Lyric’s Board and chairman of Lyric’s production sponsorship committee.
The Lyric Opera is one of the extremely few gold plated houses in the Opera world and COMMANDOpera will be following this selection process rather closely. Anyone who is anyone will be quietly slipping their C.V. under the door of Mr. Pigott. Without question, one may surmise there will be much jostling within those famed halls to bring in an American to run the theatre.
COMMANDOpera sends hearty felicitations to Mr. Mason for a relaxed retirement, and a supportive arm to Mr. Pigott for the onerous task he must now undertake.