Ailing Gheorghiu Leaves Tosca Opener in San Francisco

A bit of excitement at San Francisco's opera house last night. Angela Gheorghiu, playing Tosca, was sent off to the hospital after the first act with intestinal flu (haven't heard how she is, but hopefully that means everything's okay). Melody Moore, her cover, filled in and, after a little warming up in Act 2, just absolutely shone. Gorgeous "Vissi 'd'arte," standing O, all the things you'd expect to see in a Hollywood movie. I'll have a full review up tomorrow, but meanwhile here's a shot by SFO photog Kristen Loken of Moore taking what must have been some very memorable bows.

SFO reports that Gheorghiu is doing fine, having recovered from severe dehydration. They also report that, though Moore has done many roles with SF Opera before, this was her role debut as Tosca. I might add, you never would have known Gheorghiu was ailing from her performance; she was her usual excellent self.

Below, another shot, captured from the wings: Melody Moore with baritone Roberto Frontali as Scarpia. Photos by Kristen Loken.