heard when the Globolinks appear sound like they are from a bad science fiction film. The creatures themselves are played for camp, not terror. The dialogue between the music teacher and the dean is played as broad farce both dramatically and vocally. Madame Euterpova often serves as Menotti's own conscience, declaring that the world has "forgotten how to sing". But, he also makes her somewhat ridiculous and egotistical so that she does not become too preachy. Menotti was fearful of the new wave of electronics and experimentation in music of the time, wondering whether these styles might eventually replace the drama and melody of traditional opera. To this end, the Globolinks are accompanied by bizarre electronic noises and can only be stopped by real, live music, such as Emily's violin. Recording The first studio recording, conducted by John DeMain, was published by Newport Classic in 1998. The original Hamburg production was filmed by German television in 1969, and was released on DVD on February 27, 2007. References Notes Sources Operas by Gian Carlo Menotti 1968 operas German-language operas English-language operas Operas Science fiction operas Opera world premieres at the Hamburg State Opera