Porgy and Bess question

[coryografer]

Posted: 7/20/10 at 9:54pm

Does anyone here know anything about a City Center production of Porgy and Bess in the spring of 1961? I know someone who saw it and we are trying to come up with a cast list or anything at all about the production. Thanks.............

[nobodyhome]

Posted: 7/20/10 at 10:12pm

William Warfield and Irving Barnes alternated as Porgy. Leesa Foster and Martha Flowers alternated as Bess. Rawn Spearman was Sportin' Life, Barbara Webb was Serena, Carol Brice was Maria, James Randolph was Crown, Billie Lynn Daniel was Clara, and Leonard Parker and Irving Barnes alternated as Jake. Julius Rudel conducted. The production was directed by William Ball.

[coryografer]

Posted: 7/20/10 at 10:43pm

Do we know if this was a NYCO production? Sorry to be a nudge, but would like to know more about this. Thanks..........

[nobodyhome]

Posted: 7/20/10 at 10:59pm

I believe it was a City Opera production, but not presented as part of the City Opera season.

I tried to respond to your PM, coryografer, but got the message that you don't accept private messages.