The Metropolitan Opera Live in HD: global cinemacasts, robotic cameras, and more

Published: Oct. 2, 2007, 8:30 p.m.

The Metropolitan Opera has been delivering in HD since 1990. Now it's live worldwide, with multiple languages of subtitles, multiple picture and sound formats, as many as 15 cameras, and more. Opera in HD. Live. In a house that might perform seven different operas a week (and two different ones each day). With all cameras and mics invisible. With live distribution to cinemas all over the world in multiple HD and sound formats. With separate directors for the music and the intermissions, coordinated with different live radio shows. With setup in less than two hours. It has happened. The last two shows finished in the top-20 U.S. theatrical weekend box office even though they were shown only once (versus multiple movie showings). Next season will feature 33% more operas, and still more are planned for 2009. Learn how it's all done.