An Opera About A Newscast

It may have some superficial similarities to “Jerry Springer The Opera”, but “Newsnight The Opera” has its own rhythm (and special problems”. “There’s an inherent problem in using reports as the basis for an opera: by their nature, they describe events that have occurred “off stage”, and the evening runs the risk of feeling like a string of messenger speeches.”

Progress in Barnes Fate?

In a switch, Lincoln University now says it might consider a change in the its role governing the Barnes Foundation. “We recognize our responsibility to the Barnes Foundation and the community. But if Lincoln’s role is going to be disrupted, then we have to see how Lincoln can benefit from this. We’re willing to talk.”

Auction Sales Down

The world art auction business has been shrinking. Total sales are down as are total number of lots for sale. “Artprice also lists the top selling artists, by total value of works sold. The front-runner is Picasso, followed by Renoir, Warhol, Degas and Mantegna (in fifth place, up from 12,734th place) a suitably absurd piece of knowledge since there is unlikely to be another Mantegna on the market again, ever.”

CD Price Cut – Great Move or Too Little, Too Late

Reactions are mixed to Universal’s announcement that it will cut CD prices by 30 percent. “It as been hailed by some observers as a move guaranteed to revitalize the moribund recording industry, and by others as an act of capitulation by a giant brought to its knees by the revenue-sucking effects of illegal Internet music file-sharing and copying on home computers.”