Opera Visionaries: Gatti-Casazza & Seligsberg, 1917

This photograph features Gatti-Casazza and A. Seligsberg, taken on October 3, 1917, by a Bain News Service photographer. Gatti-Casazza, an influential figure in the world of opera, served as the general manager of the Metropolitan Opera from 1908 to 1935, transforming it into a leading cultural institution in America. His visionary leadership helped introduce groundbreaking operatic talent and productions, making opera accessible to a broader audience during a time of great change in American arts.

A. Seligsbergs connection to Gatti-Casazza may relate to the business side of the arts, reflecting the collaboration between talent management and the administration crucial for the operas success. Captured in a moment of apparent conversation, this image provides a glimpse into the dynamics of the opera scene during the early 20th century. As the world faced the turmoil of World War I, institutions like the Metropolitan Opera continued to thrive, showcasing resilience and a dedication to the arts that resonates to this day.