ANNA BOLENA, the outdoor screening @ the Met. Opera House

Last night was the closing of the outdoor screenings of the Met's productions from this season.  The finale was ANNA BOLENA, the premier production of the 2011-2012 season.  For those who love opera or are willing to give it a try, this is a great way to get the experience.  What can be better than a free outdoor concert screening on the front of the Met House?  Well maybe a free live production, but this was a great way to spend a cool and relaxing evening with family & friends.  Anna Netrebko who starred in this production was on hand to welcome everyone before the screening.  The music is by Gaetano Donizeti and the overture was intoxicating.  The story is of Henry VIII's divorce from Queen Anne to marry his new love, Jane Seymour.  In 1536, when King Henry VIII wished to dissolve a marriage, executions were used to expedite matters.  New Yorkers who love or want to be exposed to opera, sitting outside in set up chairs (or bring your own) this is a wonderful way to get a taste for what the Met has to offer.  Be warned; the chairs on the tree promenade are not to be removed.  Heads were going to roll in Act II and Act I gave us plenty to enjoy so we decided to roll.  I encourage New Yorkers to take advantage of these free outdoor concerts.  It was good to see that so many people did just that.