During the rehearsals for Frederica von Stade’s Amazing Gala Celebration in San Francisco, a most serious, and, eh hem, obviously somber atmosphere prevailed as we all tried extremely hard to bring our very best for this momentous occasion. As you can see, my efforts were thwarted as the dancing trio of (yes, this will not be a typo) Dame Kiri “I have lungs of steel“ Te Kanawa, Flicka “I’m so happy I’m not singing this anymore“ von Stade, and Jake “How long does this piece go on?“ Heggie dance their tails off. There was not a dry eye in the house. But do be warned - you will never be able to hear this aria again without this vision in head! As remarkable as that all is, do keep your eye on Dame Kiri’s puppy who did not quite know what to make of it all - talk about a scene stealer! Fabulous videography by the de-lovely Susan Graham. Seriously. My life will never be the same.
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