Tonight: Der Rosenkavalier at the Met Opera

Tonight I'm taking my mother to see the last Der Rosenkavalier at the Metropolitan Opera.  Last fall, I saw the dress rehearsal and a regular performance.  Last Saturday, I saw it broadcasted live in HD at the movie theatre.  I do love it and wish it would be on every season (although I might need to nap during that 2nd act, after the Presentation of the Rose of course).

There's a rumor that this is Susan Graham's last Octavian. I hope it's not true.  I did ask her about it last fall, she smarty-pantsly said that it wasn't her last because she'd sing it in January.  She was non-committal about the rumor that she'll be singing the soprano role of the Marschallin some day in the future (possibly at the Houston Grand Opera).   So, this could be the last.  When the trio subsides tonight, there will no doubt be an elusive tear or two forming in my eyes.

After, we are going backstage to say hello to the Divas and we are further charged by Cara, my five year old niece, to get Susan's autograph for her.You may recall that she attended Susan Graham's recital in Midland in December.  Because it was a school night, she was too tired to stay up for the post-recital reception.  Here's a transcript of the conversation we had when I included her in watching Renée Fleming's appearance on Craig Ferguson's show:

Cara:  RahRah, Is this opera?
Me: Yes.  And I know her.  She's my favorite soprano.
Cara: I don't like opera.
Me: Well, you liked Susan Graham.  She's an opera singer.
Cara: [pensive pause]  Well, I like Susan Graham, she's my favorite.