Turandot at the Metropolitan Opera

On Wednesday night Felipe took me to the Metropolitan Opera to see their production of Puccini's Turandot as my anniversary gift. I had not yet been to the Met to see an opera, although I have wanted to go since I arrived in New York City four and a half years ago. The story of Turandot takes place in Peking China, and it about a princess that declares any suitor must answer three riddles correctly in order to take her as a bride. If the suitors don't answer correctly, then they must die by execution. Turandot is "challenged" by a new suitor Calàf, who answers the three riddles correctly. Turandot, still not wanting to belong to or be conquered by any man becomes upset and the Calàf offers her one riddle - find out his name by dawn and he will willingly be executed, but if she cannot find out his name then they will marry. Turandot then wildly tries to find out his name through intimidation and threats to her subjects, only to be persuaded by his love to marry him in the end.

The story was nice, and I really enjoyed the minor parts of Ping, Pang and Pong who were her three ministers. Their characters tried wildly to persuade Calàf to leave and to give up his pursuit of Turandot. Their costumes were beautiful and colorful (I'm sorry I can't find any links to photos on the internet...all of them were from different productions). The sets were also amazing, very very elaborate and consuming the entire stage. If only they allowed photography during the show ;)

In addition to the production being beautiful, the Metropolitan Opera house if full of amazingly opulent details. Of course when you walk in you are greeted by an enormous Swarovsky chandelier, the style of which is repeated through out the House.

This one was in the main entrance to the Opera House.

Felipe took a photo of me with the chandelier in the background

It really looks like fire works or sparklers. Really brilliant!

Then there was the inside of the theater (completed in 1966) - full of gold leafing and beautiful woodwork, and more crystal lights.






Here is a photo of the last scene, from the New York Times review of the show


I can't wait to get back for another opera!