The Opera House Poster

The Opera House 2017

★ 8.24 votes108 min📅 2017-10-01

Dive into the captivating backstory of New York City's most iconic cultural landmark in *The Opera House* (2017), Susan Froemke's richly detailed documentary.

Director: Susan Froemke

Cast

Leontyne Price
Self - Interviewee
Humphrey Burton
Self - BBC Arts Reporter
Justino Díaz
Justino Díaz
Self (archive footage)
Rudolf Bing
Self (archive footage)
Wallace Harrison
Self (archive footage)
Franco Zeffirelli
Franco Zeffirelli
Self (archive footage)
Samuel Barber
Self (archive footage)
Robert Moses
Self (archive footage)
Hilary Ballon
Self (archive footage)
Rosalind Elias
Self (archive footage)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Opera House (2017) about?

*The Opera House* (2017) explores the creation of New York City's iconic Metropolitan Opera House at Lincoln Center. The documentary traces the bold vision behind its construction in the 1950s and '60s, revealing the political, artistic, and architectural challenges that shaped this cultural landmark.

Who directed The Opera House?

The film was directed by Susan Froemke, an award-winning documentary filmmaker known for her insightful and visually compelling storytelling about the arts and culture.

Who stars in The Opera House?

The film features legendary soprano Leontyne Price, along with cultural figures like conductor Humphrey Burton, bass-baritone Justino Díaz, and influential figures such as Rudolf Bing and Franco Zeffirelli.

Is The Opera House (2017) worth watching?

As a documentary, *The Opera House* (2017) is a compelling watch for anyone interested in the intersection of art, history, and architecture. Its blend of archival footage and personal stories makes it a fascinating exploration of a defining era in NYC's cultural life.

How long is The Opera House?

The runtime of *The Opera House* (2017) is 108 minutes.

🎥 Trailer

About The Opera House (2017) — The Untold Story Behind NYC's Legendary Stage

Dive into the captivating backstory of New York City's most iconic cultural landmark in *The Opera House* (2017), Susan Froemke's richly detailed documentary. Through a treasure trove of rarely seen archival footage, striking photographs, and fresh interviews, the film uncovers the dramatic construction and political intrigue behind the Metropolitan Opera's Lincoln Center home. Set against the vibrant backdrop of the 1950s and '60s, it reveals the untold struggles and triumphs of the visionaries—artists, architects, and leaders—who shaped one of the world's most celebrated performance spaces.

With a focus on the human stories behind the marble halls, *The Opera House* brings to life the passion and ambition that defined an era. From trailblazing soprano Leontyne Price to influential figures like Rudolf Bing and Franco Zeffirelli, the documentary paints a vivid portrait of a city—and a nation—on the brink of cultural transformation. Whether you're a seasoned opera enthusiast or a history buff, this film offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of American arts and the enduring power of performance.