Ocean State Libraries

For a generation of opera lovers, Rise Stevens was the Carmen. Her husky, insinuating voice was the embodiment of Bizet's gypsy temptress. Taken from a February 16, 1952 broadcast, this two CD set sees the legendary Fritz Reiner conducting the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra and Chorus in this unforgettable performance.

Lilliet Berne is a sensation of the Paris Opera, a legendary soprano with every accolade except an original role, every singers' chance at immortality. When one is finally offered to her, she realizes with alarm that the libretto is based on a hidden piece of her past. Only four could have betrayed her: one is dead, one loves her, one wants to own her. And one, she hopes, never thinks of her at all. As she mines her memories for clues, she recalls...