Performer: Joseph Mechavich

Carlisle Floyd's operatic setting of John Steinbeck’s classic novella is given a new production in the composer's centenary year at the Lyric Opera of Kansas City.

Jake Heggie's Dead Man Walking is credited as being the most performed 21st-century opera, and with good reason.

Returning stars and high-profile company debuts contributed panache to the energy-charged atmosphere.

James Robinson's production of Adams' Nixon in China hits its stride at San Diego Opera.