Best Metropolitan Opera Podcasts (2025)

1
Murder at the Metropolitan Opera House 1:35:21

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17d ago1:35:21

1:35:21

31-year-old Helen Mintiks (known professionally as Helen Hagnes) left the orchestra pit to get a drink. It was intermission for the Met musicians and Helen was hoping to speak with the lead dancer of the ballet whom she believed was relaxing in his dressing room. When the musicians returned to the pit to take their seats, Helen wasn't among them. H…

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#16: On the Recent Parliamentary Elections in Czechia from Slovakia (ft. Peter Weiss) 29:17

5h ago29:17

29:17

In this episode, Pavol Demeš speaks with Peter Weiss — a prominent Slovak former member of Parliament and former Slovak Ambassador to the Czech Republic. Their conversation explores the recent parliamentary elections in Czechia, their course, key issues, results, and possible scenarios for the formation of the new government led by Andrej Babiš. Th…

1
Eva Amurri's Run-in with the Spirit of a Murdered Woman 59:24

3h ago59:24

59:24

You might know her as Susan Sarandon's daughter; in fact, she's played the daughter of some of her mother's characters on screen. But when she's not acting or producing content for her popular website "Happily Eva After," Eva Amurri is seeing spirits. Well, one specific spirit to be exact. Back in 2011 Eva encountered the ghost of a woman who'd bee…

1
Kevin's 2025 Horror Movie Recs! 1:06:39

2d ago1:06:39

1:06:39

Kevin’s counting down his Top 10 Horror Movies of the season — from slow-burn psychological chills to blood-soaked thrill rides. Find out which films scared, shocked, and stuck with him long after the credits rolled. Join our Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/horrorwoodpodcast Follow us! IG, FB Send us an email: [email protected] Episode S…

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The Murder of Tyrone Jamel "TJ" Jones, Jr. 56:19

9d ago56:19

56:19

What began as a birthday celebration in Queens ended with a life cut short and a community reeling. When actor and musician Isaiah Stokes let a feud from that night fester, it set in motion a plan that would leave Tyrone Jones dead and his family heartbroken. From the party to the ambush to the tense courtroom battle, this story follows how a singl…

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#15: Czech Republic before the Upcoming General Elections (ft. Petr Šimùnek) 46:32

22d ago46:32

46:32

Mirek Konvalina speaks with Petr Šimùnek, respected Czech journalist, former editor in chief of the world best business magazine Forbes (Czech Edition), about the state of the Czech Republic before upcoming general elections. At the beginning of October, Czechs will head to the polls to elect a new Chamber of Deputies, the lower house of Parliament…

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"The Blair Witch Project": Fact, Fiction & Fallout 55:46

23d ago55:46

55:46

The Blair Witch Project redefined horror with nothing more than three actors, a few cameras, and a week in the woods—and the chaos didn’t stop when the film ended. Between its improvised shoot, eerie alternate endings, and ties to real Maryland legends, the movie left audiences guessing what was real and what wasn’t. Fan theories kept the mystery a…

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46. Summer RECAP with James Whiteside 30:39

30d ago30:39

30:39

James talks about Met Season with ABT, Vail Dance Festival, and staging his ballet "New American Romance" in Mexico City. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-stage-rightside-with-james-whiteside/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy…

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The Mystery of The Lady of the Dunes 1:09:24

1M ago1:09:24

1:09:24

The Lady of the Dunes remains one of Cape Cod’s most haunting mysteries, but years after her body was found in 1974, a surprising theory surfaced: could she have appeared as an extra in the movie Jaws? With the blockbuster filming nearby at the same time, author (and son of Stephen King) Joe Hill spotted a woman onscreen who seemed eerily similar t…

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#14: Exploring Religion's Place in Today's Turbulent World (ft. Ján Figel') 33:55

1M ago33:55

33:55

Pavol Demeš speaks with Ján Figel' — Slovakia’s former Chief Negotiator for EU accession, the country’s first European Commissioner, and recognized expert in the interfaith dialogue. Their conversation touches on Figel'’s personal and family ties to the United States, reflections on shifts in transatlantic relations, perspectives on the war in Ukra…

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#13: Building Connection Through the Czech Language (ft. Dr. Ivana Bozděchová) 51:01

1M ago51:01

51:01

Mirek Konvalina speaks with Czech linguist Ivana Bozděchová, associate professor from the Institute of Czech Language and Communication Theory, Faculty of Arts at Charles University, Prague. They talk about their native language and how it is used abroad, among compatriots, in Czech schools, and among other people interested in their mother tongue.…

1
UPDATE: Annabelle 30:11

1M ago30:11

30:11

UPDATE! The sudden death of paranormal investigator Dan Rivera during the “Devils on the Run” tour reignited rumors about the infamous haunted Annabelle doll. Just weeks later, comedian Matt Rife and YouTuber Elton Castee announced they had purchased/leased the Warrens’ former home and museum, including our Raggedy Ann girl. Yikes! Episode Sources:…

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The Murder of Cameraman Bob Samuels 1:14:44

1M ago1:14:44

1:14:44

*If you'd like to skip our banter in the beginning, fast forward about 8 minutes. In 1988 Bob Samuels was busy working as a camera assistant on "Lethal Weapon 2," the latest in a long string of films for the 40-year-old. He seemingly had everything he'd ever wanted - the woman of his dreams, an adopted daughter, and a career in the film industry. B…

1
Richard D. May: A Dream Cut Short 34:56

2M ago34:56

34:56

Richard D. May was finally living his dream. He had just been cast in a professional production, ready to take the stage in Death of a Salesman at the African-American Shakespeare Company in San Francisco, CA. He had the talent, the drive, and a powerful presence that turned heads. But just hours before opening night, everything changed. This is th…

1
CROSSOVER COLLAB! "My Man Godfrey" with "Go Get Your Girl" 1:18:16

2M ago1:18:16

1:18:16

Carole Lombard and William Powell were lovers-turned-spouses-turned-exes-turned-lovers again-turned-exes for real this time-turned-BFFs. Together they starred in the 1936 screwball comedy "My Man Godfrey," and despite both of them shining on screen, behind the cameras each faced periods of darkness and tragic loss. Then at the age of 33, a person's…

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Davidsen's Isolde 1:21:45

2M ago1:21:45

1:21:45

In early 2026 soprano Lise Davidsen will perform the role of Isolde in two cities: first in Barcelona, then New York City in March. In 2024, Ms. Davidsen tried out the role "on the road" when she sang Act II in a concert performance in Munich. The Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra was led by Sir Simon Rattle.…

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Haunted Theatres: The Egyptian in DeKalb, IL 40:48

2M ago40:48

40:48

In the center of downtown DeKalb stands the Egyptian Theatre—an architectural tribute to ancient times. But this isn’t just a historic theater; it’s a place where the past lingers in more ways than one. Built in 1929, the Egyptian has survived economic collapse, near demolition, and decades of change. Today, it’s not only a beloved cultural landmar…

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#12: Slovak PRO Accelerates its Activities in America (ft. Gabriela Zahoranska) 21:22

2M ago21:22

21:22

In this podcast, within the NCSML Voices from the Homelands series, Pavol Demeš interviews Gabriela Zahoranska, executive Director of the Slovak PRO, large and very successful community-based non-profit organization which has been connecting, supporting and empowering the Slovak professional community in America.…

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#11: Czech Classical Music Remains a Big Theme Both in the Czech Republic and Abroad (ft. Dr. Aleš Bøezina) 43:21

2M ago43:21

43:21

Mirek Konvalina speaks with musicologist and Director of the Bohuslav Martinù Institute, Dr. Aleš Bøezina, who is currently finishing preparations for a major festival of the Czech composer Bohuslav Martinù in the United States, inviting us to the upcoming Martinù festival at Bard College New York – "Bard Music Festival 2025: Martinù and his World"…

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The Yannick Formula | What I want to say about Yannick Nezet Seguin for long. 22:21

3M ago22:21

22:21

To every young conductor who genuinely loves music: your enthusiasm matters, and it shows. Keep going. It pays off. Popularity doesn't always display the rights Send Aulinda a Text Message Support the show Email: [email protected] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skr_frv/ Twitter (now day X): https://twitter.com/aulinda_w Feel free to follo…

1
The Execution of Singer/Actor Zhang Yiyang 39:45

3M ago39:45

39:45

Zhang Yiyang was known for writing and singing love songs, which helped him gain celebrity status in his home country of China. His fame only grew once he transferred his talents to the screen, performing in various shows and films. So imagine the shock of his fans when they learned he'd committed an act so vile that he was sentenced to death. Epis…

1
We Know What You Did Last Summer 58:58

3M ago58:58

58:58

A summer scare rooted in urban legend and real-life horror. From the hook-handed tale that haunted teenage lovers, to the Texarkana Moonlight Murders, to the film I Know What You Did Last Summer—and the chilling true story of author Lois Duncan’s murdered daughter. What begins as a cautionary campfire story spirals into a web of true crime, pop cul…

1
Wagner in July 18:04

3M ago18:04

18:04

In this episode we present a rarely heard piece by the composer, comisioned to celebrate the Centennial of the United States of America.By Vincent Vargas

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It's a Bird! It's a Plane! It's...the Scourge of 'Superman' 1:01:49

3M ago1:01:49

1:01:49

Have you heard of the 'Superman' curse? We're not entirely convinced one actually exists, although the number of lawsuits, accidents, deaths and faltering careers would suggest otherwise... Episode Sources: “Up, Up and Awa-a-y! The Rise of Superman, Inc.” by John Kobler, Saturday Evening Post, June 21, 1941 “Exhibit honors Superman's Cleveland root…

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Rockaway Beach, Rooftop Films, Urban Stomp, and more! 28:08

3M ago28:08

28:08

This month on Arts in the City…we head to Rockaway Beach; explore our city’s history of dance; check out Rooftop Films; meet a designer revitalizing the Garment District; and chat with legendary Broadway producer Jeffrey Seller.

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The Murder of Oscar-Winning Actor Dr. Haing S. Ngor - Part 2 1:07:21

3M ago1:07:21

1:07:21

Haing experienced extraordinary success in the entertainment industry after settling in the U.S., but did he make enemies along the way? Just as he pulled into his carport one evening, before he even had a chance to get out of the car, he was shot in the chest and killed. However, the gunman sped away without taking the thousands of dollars in cash…

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#10: Remarks on the recent GLOBSEC Forum in Prague, et al. 32:29

3M ago32:29

32:29

Miroslav Wlachovský is the former Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Slovak Republic, an ambassador, and now is a distinguished fellow at the well-known GLOBSEC international think tank. Host Pavol Demes discusses with him the recent GLOBSEC Forum in Prague, results of the NATO Summitt in Hague, and his views on the National Czech & Slovak Museum &…

1
#9: The Czech Star at the Metropolitan Opera in New York 45:17

3M ago45:17

45:17

Miroslav Konvalina talks from Prague with popular Czech bass-baritone Adam Plachetka, currently the most successful Czech opera singer who is performing at the Metropolitan Opera and who has had more than one hundred appearances in the last 10 years.By The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library

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45. Giselle with Cassandra Trenary 35:02

3M ago35:02

35:02

James talks to ABT Principal dancer Cassandra Trenary about their performance of Giselle at the Metropolitan Opera House and her decision to leave ABT to join Vienna State Opera. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-stage-rightside-with-james-whiteside/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: h…

1
The Murder of Oscar-Winning Actor Dr. Haing S. Ngor - Part 1 1:11:24

3M ago1:11:24

1:11:24

Haing Ngor's childhood in Cambodia was marked by political unrest leading up to the Cold War. As an adult, he survived the Cambodian genocide under the Khmer Rouge regime to build a new life in Los Angeles, CA. His career took a surprising turn when he became an award-winning actor, but his life was cut short when he was gunned down in 1996. Did fa…

1
Cards, Ghosts, and Obsession | Tchaikovsky’s Queen of Spades 17:42

4M ago17:42

17:42

Send Aulinda a Text Message Support the show Email: [email protected] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skr_frv/ Twitter (now day X): https://twitter.com/aulinda_w Feel free to follow me on social medias! #aulindaspick I do opera recommendations!By Aulinda Wei

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The Heartless Murder of Kesaria Abramidze 58:33

4M ago58:33

58:33

A beloved actress, model, and trailblazing trans icon in the country of Georgia, Kesaria Abramidze used her voice to speak out against domestic violence and injustice—right up until the moment it took her life. Just one day after a sweeping anti-LGBTQ+ law passed in Parliament, Kesaria was found brutally murdered in her home. Her story isn’t just a…

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The Frick, The High Line, Vintage Toys, and more! 27:06

4M ago27:06

27:06

This month on Arts in the City… we stop by the newly renovated Frick; visit a museum dedicated to vintage toys; take in the outdoor art on the High Line; check out an exhibit inspired by the Bronx; get insider tips for Broadway on a budget; and stop by a cafe fusing Ethiopian and Israeli cuisine.

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44. Swan Lake with Catherine Hurlin 44:48

4M ago44:48

44:48

James talks to ABT Principal Dancer Catherine Hurlin before and after their performance of Swan Lake at the Metropolitan Opera House. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-stage-rightside-with-james-whiteside/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy…

1
The Circus Train Tragedy of 1918 1:08:03

4M ago1:08:03

1:08:03

At its peak, the Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus was one of the largest traveling shows in the country—until a tragic train wreck in 1918 brought it to a screeching halt. This story follows the rise of the American circus, the crash that claimed dozens of lives near Hammond, Indiana, and the haunting legacy of Showmen’s Rest, where many of the victims are…

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43. Special Tour Episode with James, Reid, & Harriet 1:11:20

4M ago1:11:20

1:11:20

In this special episode, James recaps the Spring touring season, accompanied by costume designers Reid Bartelme and Harriet Jung. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-stage-rightside-with-james-whiteside/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy…

1
The Wild & Wily Kidnapping of Frank Sinatra, Jr. 1:19:02

4M ago1:19:02

1:19:02

When Frank Sinatra, Jr. checked into his motel room in Lake Tahoe, he never could have predicted the circumstances in which he'd be checking out. What ensued was a comedy of errors involving a snowstorm, a musical legend, and a hapless kidnapper with a heart of gold. Episode Sources: “The Grand Scheme: Snatching Sinatra” hosted by John Stamos “The …

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#8: Ambassador of the European Union to Ukraine Speaks on Present Day Topics 29:49

4M ago29:49

29:49

In this episode, Katarína Mathernová, Ambassador of the European Union to Ukraine, who was born in Bratislava before studying and working for several years in the United States, shares information on the heroism of Ukrainians defending their country from Russian aggression. She also describes parameters of her job as well as EU and US assistance to…

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#7: Ivan Puš, Palacky University Olomouc Historian, Speaks About 80 Years Since the Liberation of Czechoslovakia 25:14

4M ago25:14

25:14

After the freedom celebrations in Pilsen, which were bigger than ever, there is time to reflect on the 80 years since its liberation by US troops. Ivan Puš, Assistant Professor at the Department of History, Faculty of Arts, Palacky University Olomouc, speaks about how a young Czech historian can, from today's perspective, characterize this huge con…

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LISTENER FAVORITE: The Shooting of Stuntman Garrett Warren 1:05:08

4M ago1:05:08

1:05:08

Garrett Warren was at the top of his game when he was gunned down in the doorway of his home - and in front of his mother, no less. But why would anyone want to murder a man described as a kind, generous friend and focused professional? This case has some wild twists and turns involving a pizza parlor, a picture taken at a party and...Home Alone's …

1
Salome was not your Object | Met’s Salome 16:41

4M ago16:41

16:41

Send Aulinda a Text Message Support the show Email: [email protected] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skr_frv/ Twitter (now day X): https://twitter.com/aulinda_w Feel free to follow me on social medias! #aulindaspick I do opera recommendations!By Aulinda Wei

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The Curse of Annabelle 45:22

5M ago45:22

45:22

The infamous Annabelle doll may have become a Hollywood horror icon thanks to The Conjuring universe, but her real story is even creepier. Originally a possessed…ahem, manipulated…Raggedy Ann doll, Annabelle was investigated by paranormal legends Ed and Lorraine Warren in the 1970s. From her eerie beginnings with two nurses to her terrifying reputa…

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The Complicated Life & Death of Nancy Spungen - Part 3 55:22

5M ago55:22

55:22

"There's trouble in Room 100." Those were the words muttered by a male caller to the man working the front desk of the Chelsea Hotel the morning of October 12, 1978. The "trouble" was that 20-year-old Nancy Spungen was dead in the bathroom from a single stab wound to her abdomen. Multiple people had been in and out of the room throughout the previo…

1
The Complicated Life & Death of Nancy Spungen - Part 2 59:47

5M ago59:47

59:47

When we ended Part 1, Nancy had just moved from New York to London and met The Sex Pistols' bassist Sid Vicious. In Nancy's opinion, Sid was an incredibly talented musician and wonderful boyfriend, but Sid had a violent side... Episode Sources: “In Search of Sid” - Radio 4 Documentary about Sid Vicious with Jah Wobble “Sad Vacation: The Last Days o…

1
Noguchi Museum, Bette Davis, Betty Boop, and more! 27:16

5M ago27:16

27:16

This month on Arts in the City…we tour the Noguchi Museum in Queens; visit the immersive exhibits at Mercer Labs; check out a play about Hollywood icon Bette Davis; take a look at inspiring murals with Groundswell; and chat with the creative team and stars of the Broadway hit Boop!

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The Complicated Life & Death of Nancy Spungen - Part 1 1:27:18

5M ago1:27:18

1:27:18

There was nothing simple about Nancy Spungen, punk rock fanatic and girlfriend of "The Sex Pistols" bassist Sid Vicious. Her life was a revolving door of psychiatric clinics, prescription-happy physicians and an undiagnosed mental illness stemming from a traumatic birth. The details of her death have remained a topic of discussion for decades. Poli…

1
Drama Duel: Benjamin Jonson vs. Gabriel Spencer 1:04:35

5M ago1:04:35

1:04:35

Welcome to the life of Benjamin Jonson—widely regarded as the second-best playwright of the Elizabethan era and ALWAYS in competition with Shakespeare. Before rising to literary fame, Jonson was part of the Admiral’s Men acting troupe in London, where he found himself caught in deadly dramas on and offstage. In 1598, he killed actor Gabriel Spencer…

1
Die Zauberflöte: Too Many Birds, Just Enough Flute 17:46

6M ago17:46

17:46

Overall it's fun to watch because at the end of the day it's still one of the best operas ever!!!! Send Aulinda a Text Message Support the show Email: [email protected] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skr_frv/ Twitter (now day X): https://twitter.com/aulinda_w Feel free to follow me on social medias! #aulindaspick I do opera recommendation…

1
Everything You Didn't Need to Know About "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory" 1:40:06

6M ago1:40:06

1:40:06

We're talking today about the beloved children's classic that features a demonic recluse who delights in the torture of children, while his enslaved factory workers are forced to sing and dance in unison. Believe it or not I actually love this film. Come with me, Misfits. It'll be a scrumdiddlyumtious good time! Episode Sources: “Pure Imagination: …

1
#6: Father Ben on Priesthood in Slovakia & the United States + the Legacy of Pope Francis 38:14

6M ago38:14

38:14

Pavol Demes interviews Benjamin Kosnáč, the Slovak catholic priest with rich experience in pastoral work not only in Slovakia but also abroad, including many years spent in the United States of America.By The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library