The Toughest Show on Earth

On the eve of his retirement as general manager of The Metropolitan Opera, the outspoken culture czar offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse of life at one of the world's great operatic houses, recalling the political and artistic intrigues in which he has played a part, the business of running a cultural institution, and his collaboration with noted musicians, singers, directors, and conductors. 75,000 first printing.