The name Mario Lanza did not belong in the hallowed halls of great opera singers. He owed his popularity to second-rate Hollywood movies and sang classical arias and pop songs to the masses who adored him, but also inspired the biggest names in opera to become opera singers with the film THE GREAT CARUSO.

This lecture examines the extraordinary rise and fall – and post-humous rehabilitation – of the most controversial tenor of the 20th century.

It is time to reassess him at the centennial of his birth!

Speaker: Erika Reitshamer is an engaging teacher whose knowledge and love of opera will inspire all and her open style and sense of humor are irresistible. She has lectured on opera and great singers of opera for many years and was active in the formation of the Boston Lyric Company.

This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Library.