By late October the Met’s season is in full swing and with this weekend visit we are able to capitalize on the very strong programming that has become a hallmark of the company under Peter Gelb’s stewardship. James Levine leads the season premiere of Don Pasquale with Anna Netrebko in one of her tour-de-force roles as a sizzling Norina and Matthew Polenzani as Ernesto in the acclaimed 2006 Otto Schenk production. Director Peter Stein’s new production of Mussorgsky’s Boris Godunov features German bass René Pape in the title role and a stellar Russian cast, also showcasing the Met’s formidable chorus in one of the richest operas ever written. The classic and extravagant Zeffirelli production of La Bohème, revived in 2008, is the appropriate starting point for our three night New York visit. On the final evening there is the option to attend the successful David McVicar version of Il Trovatore with Patricia Racette and Marcelo Álvarez, led by Marco Armiliato.

The Empire Hotel, a member of WorldHotels Deluxe Collection offers stylish accommodation and a location that is just steps to the Lincoln Center and surrounded by attractive dining options.

Thursday October 28
Independent arrivals in New York and transfer to The Empire Hotel at 44 West 63rd Street, directly across from the Lincoln Center. Join hosts Annie & Ian Sale for a Welcome Dinner before leaving for the 8.00pm performance of La Bohème. The ill-fated couple is portrayed by Latvian soprano Maija Kovalevska and the young Italian tenor Vittorio Grigolo, both of whom have received outstanding notices for previous performances.

Friday October 29
Mid-morning transfer down to historic Greenwich Village for a private Culture and Food Tour through this unique tree-lined neighborhood. Return to the hotel for relaxation and depart again in the early evening for the Lincoln Center and the season premiere of Donizetti’s classic opera buffa. John Del Carlo sings the title role and Mariusz Kwiecien aids and abets the action as a remarkable Dr. Malatesta. Enjoy the excitement of the premiere with intermission dining on the glittering Grand Tier.

Saturday October 30
The morning is open before the 12.00pm performance of Boris Godunov, Mussorgsky’s sole completed opera and considered a masterpiece. René Pape can claim to be this generation’s definitive interpreter of the title role and this new Peter Stein production should provide the vehicle for him to further develop the character, both vocally and artistically. Overall, the performance should be a highly memorable event. After the opera the group will gather for a closing celebration of the weekend at Rosa Mexicano, with ample time to spare for those electing to attend the evening’s optional performance of Il Trovatore at 8.30pm.

Sunday October 31
Independent departures or extension.