Breaking News: Tony T Grows Hints of Backbone

"Though there were many lovely and ethereal moments and some impressive flights of coloratura, Ms. Fleming's singing was rough-edged at times. Occasionally a sustained tone would quiver below pitch. But it was exciting to hear her taking such chances."

Soprano Takes Chances as a Feisty Wood Nymph [NYT]

(In other news, Met Opera revokes Tony's *free intermission drinks* card, and reconsiders plan to name two basement bathroom stalls for said critic. Developing story; more to come in the next hour.)

UPDATE: Probationary two-drink limit enforced for Tony, after his date assured the Met board that the critic was *really, really, REALLY excited* to hear Fleming take said chances. (He has video proof, we're told.) Full privileges to be reinstated after agreeable Roméo et Juliette review. Meanwhile, company man Bernie H. receives personal (framed) note from Emperor Joe for his impeccable Met Aida press release.