In Wednesday’s (8/4) Star-Ledger (Newark, New Jersey), Peggy McGlone writes, “The New Jersey State Opera’s production of ‘Porgy and Bess’ in May was heralded as both a cultural milestone for Newark and the rebirth of the company. With a cast of 18 led by Metropolitan Opera regular Gregg Baker, a chorus of 30 and a 52-piece orchestra, the Gershwin classic was the first full production the company had presented in five years. But two months after the performances, opera officials owe about $230,000—a third of all costs—to a variety of vendors and contracted workers, including the musicians in the orchestra. The union representing them has filed suit with the National Labor Relations Board, seeking all of the $56,000, plus pension benefits, called for in its contract. Freelance marketing and publicity executives are waiting for money. So are advertisers and Newark Symphony Hall, which hosted the May 21 and 23 performances. Even conductor (and artistic director) Jason Tramm hasn’t been paid.”
Posted August 6, 2010
