Author Archives: Andy Manshel

Ellen West’ and ‘Hansel and Gretel’ Reviews: Food’s Cruel Torment

At Opera Saratoga, the world premiere of Ricky Ian Gordon’s riveting one-act about a woman with an eating disorder, and a confused, puppet-heavy production of Humperdinck’s fairy-tale opera. Keith Phares and Jennifer Zetlan in ‘Ellen West’ PHOTO: GARY DAVID GOLDJuly 8, 2019 2:42 pm ET Saratoga Springs, N.Y. Ricky Ian Gordon’s riveting one-act opera “Ellen West, ” …

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‘Stonewall’ Review: Celebrating a Gay-Rights Milestone Onstage

Iain Bell’s new work at the New York City Opera only occasionally succeeds at evoking the spirit of rebellion. Jordan Weatherston Pitts (center) with the company of New York City Opera’s ‘Stonewall.’ Photo: Sarah Shatz By Heidi Waleson July 2, 2019 1:27 pm ET New York Iain Bell’s opera “Stonewall,” presented by the New York …

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A Thought on the Oberlin Verdict and Race

One thing to note about the Gibson’s verdict, the Lorain County jury was apparently all white. Also, according to press reports, four black potential jurors were struck by the judge and the plaintiff’s attorneys. From a legal strategic prospective, why didn’t the College settle the case then and there? But it is also interesting to …

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