ABOUT THE OPERA WARS: ACADEMY OF MUSIC
In the Gilded Age era of New York City, a dynamic social landscape emerged, with established aristocrats and nouveau riche industrialists vying for prominence in high society. While the Academy of Music reigned supreme as the city's premier opera house, tensions flared when it denied box seats to influential figures from the burgeoning industrial elite. In response, the nouveau riche established the Metropolitan Opera House, igniting a fierce rivalry characterized by lavish events and behind-the-scenes machinations. This joint crisis committee will delve into the intricacies of this operatic war, exploring the social dynamics, economic forces, and cultural implications of the battle for dominance in New York's high society during this transformative period.
Questions? Contact usgs@barmun.org.