The Performing Arts

The preceding lists in this chapter are related to art and architecture not only because I personally like that sort of thing, but because this is where Europe truly shines. There are, of course, gorgeous national parks and majestic mountains in Europe, but similar sites exist in dozens of spots all over the world. But, no matter where you go or how long you travel, you won’t find anything similar to the cathedrals, museums, and old cities of Europe anywhere in the world.

That being said, a reader named Melanie Jacobson sent me a sweet letter recently, which reminded me that “culture” is not just museums and cathedrals, and that the performing arts are also important. She’s quite right, and it is in her honor that I include the following thoughts on opera, music, and theater.