That Actor Has a Pretty Good Voice

by Anthony Tommasini

Typically, when Rossini’s Figaro, the title character of “Il Barbiere di Siviglia,” first appears and sings his
famous aria the “Largo al factotum,” he is alone. Addressing the audience, he introduces himself. No mere
barber, Figaro asserts that he is essential to the functioning of his town. Need a confidential note passed
on? A scheme initiated? An eligible husband if you are a debutante; a new husband if you are a widow?
Then I’m your man, Figaro says. Everyone needs him; everyone calls him.

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A Broadway Legend's Lessons for Singers

During her cabaret act, "At Home at the Carlyle," which returned to the Carlyle Hotel's swanky cafe on Tuesday night after a six-week run in the fall, the indomitable actress and singer Elaine Stritch tells a revealing story about the intensely private conductor James Levine. As Ms. Stritch found out to her great surprise, Mr. Levine is one of her biggest fans.

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