Comedy without the clichés: Don Pasquale charms Zurich

A new production of Donizetti’s classic “Don Pasquale” comes with a twist – ditching the usual clichés to focus instead on the complexity of the characters. The witty comedy at the Zurich Opera House stars Julie Fuchs and Johannes Martin Kränzle in the leading roles. In a plot full of twists and turns, Don Pasquale’s … Read more

Vienna Philharmonic marches to its own tune

The Vienna Philharmonic has premiered numerous masterpieces in its 178-year history and been under the baton of the most important maestros. But it’s the New Year’s Concert which made the orchestra world-famous – with the performance being broadcast to more than 90 countries around the world. Latvian maestro Andris Nelsons, who was chosen to conduct … Read more

‘Queen of Suspense’ Mary Higgins Clark dies at 92

American author Mary Higgins Clark, known as the “Queen of Suspense” for penning dozens of thrilling bestselling novels, has died at the age of 92. “It is with great sadness we say goodbye to the “Queen of Suspense” Mary Higgins Clark, author of over 40 bestselling suspense titles,” her publisher Simon & Schuster announced on … Read more

Berlin Film Festival suspends award after allegations its founder had Nazi links

The Berlin International Film Festival has suspended one of its major prizes after allegations that its founding director, Alfred Bauer, was closely involved in organising Nazi propaganda. Bauer’s controversial past was revealed in an article in Die Zeit, which uncovered historical research suggesting that Bauer was both a member of the Nazi party and a … Read more