"We're All Fans of ENO"

Rupert Christiansen on English National Opera, and why it matters:

But the overall quality of performance must be the ultimate measure of success. The young music director, Edward Gardner, is a major asset, popular with the press and public, and both orchestra and chorus are in excellent nick. A welcome renewal of commitment to the nurturing of young British or British-trained singers has been made this season, with a decrease in the import of Americans. The casting in general looks strong.

(last year's OC interview with ENO MUsic Director Edward Gardner is here)