The final word

Is #MeToo creating opera fan apathy?

Jenna Simeonov reflects on supporting the art form as its pillars come crashing down

Here’s some irony for you: the #MeToo movement’s exposure of a serious sexual abuse problem in the opera industry has me feeling apathetic about the art form, and I’m furious about that.

Let us briefly take stock of where we’re at, to date:

, opera’s biggest was indeed sexually abusing younger men, some under 18. Countertenor is accused of drugging two men, assaulting one and raping the other. At least nine women have accused conductor of sexual assault and rape. Oh, and allegedly groped a chorus member onstage during a company curtain call.