Singing opera house blues

It's summer and, along with gorgeous flora, the Beijing arts scene is blooming. Music festivals in the parks, visiting dance troupes, and theater productions are all there deliciously waiting for the partaking.

I'm glad that despite all the hoopla over its titanium-reinforced glass exterior and egg-like shape, the National Center for the Performing Arts (NCPA) was actually built. Now I can watch opera, like I would at The Met in New York or the Esplanade in Singapore.

Two weeks ago, I impulsively bought tickets to see Carmen. Right after clicking the "purchase" button on Piao.com.cn, I panicked with buyer's remorse. I knew nothing about the performers, hadn't read any reviews, and didn't bother to find out whether the NCPA's productions were faithful. (A cultured friend panned the latter, which didn't help allay my fears).