My favorite thing about opera is actually the pre-opera crowd that gathers in the lobby of Music Hall just before the show.
It’s one of the last places in Cincinnati where people get dressed up. Really dressed up. Tuxedo, yes. Jeans & flip-flops, no.
My second favorite thing about last night’s performance of Ainadamar was Jesus Montoya’s solos. He doesn’t have many things to say so he makes them count.
Third was Jesus’ costume change at the end during the applause. It’s subtle but you’ll know what I mean if you go on Saturday.