Word has come that Benita Valente has passed away. I don't have a vast archive, but every performance was a joy. The memories are treasured. The first coverage was ZAUBERFUTE in 1973 with Ted Uppman as Papageno to Benita as Pamina.
Same year with Nicolas Flagello as Sarastro
and the three Spirits, not little boys, Christine Weidinger, Cynthia Munzer and Betsy Norden
Next 1975 FALSTAFF, total fun. Fedora Barbieri as Dame Quickly, Evelyn Lear as Alice, Joann Grillo as Meg Page and Benita as Nanetta.
Same scene wit Douglas Ahlstedt as Fenton
The final magic scene in the forest
1976 ZAUBERFLUTE, this time with Donald Gramm as Papageno
With John Macurdy as Sarastro
With Stuart Burrows as Tamino, Benita and Macurdy again.
This time three boys as the spirits- Adam Hyman, Adam Guetell, and Peter Fekula
January 1984 RINALDO with Marilyn Horne as Rinaldo
with Sam Ramey
and with Horne again. Exquisite singing all around.
Every performance was a joy to witness. I'm smiling at the images of the whole take. There was honor to the art form, respect, art never to be forgotten.
My heartfelt condolences to the family and all the friends.
Dear Benita, THANK YOU!!! RIP
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