June 2009

George Steel

Sunday, June 07, 2009

Over eleven years George Steel transformed Columbia University's Miller Theater into an acclaimed showcase for both early and modern music. And in February, after just a few months stint running the Dallas Opera, he was tapped to be the head of City Opera—an institution with a rich history, and now one facing some daunting challenges. First the audience: After missing its last season as its home, the State Theater in Lincoln Theater was being renovated, City Opera returns in the fall with a mini season featuring only five operas and 37 performances. Then of course the money challenges—holding the donor base together (City Opera has had to dip into its endowment), and avoiding a threatened strike with the singers and production staff.

In conversation with host Gilbert Kaplan, George Steel explains why he is so optimistic about the future. And reveals some of the works City Opera might perform in the future, and even speculates on which opera he might conduct himself, as well as the music he just loves which includes works by Chausson, Haydn, Stravinsky, Delius and Zorn.

Listen to the whole show