Art and Sport

On Saturday I attended the simulcast performance of Verdi’s opera “MacBeth.” Live-streamed from the Met in New York City, the movie-theater experience of the opera includes close-ups of the action on stage of course. And most interestingly, they also show shots from backstage; interviews between acts with actors and directors; and analysis of the production: historical context, facts about the composer and more. The experience was thoroughly enjoyable: a dramatic, engaging and entertaining performance with masterful performances, as well as intriguing glimpses behind the scenes.

And I had a funny thought after the show: in a strange way, it was a lot like watching a football game. Like a sports contest, the opera has a certain duration with a planned intermission; a group of people go to be entertained; and they are mostly fans who have some knowledge of what they are seeing. And in both cases, “sideline reporters” offer commentary – in real time – on the players, their histories, the highlights of their career, and more.

We watch sports because of the human drama: individuals and teams pushing themselves to perform their best, with occasionally breathtaking results in terms of physical achievement and in terms of human failure, resilience, and success. A game or match can be emotionally moving and inspiring. We watch a play or opera for similar reasons: we marvel at the talents and gifts of the performers (acting, singing, dancing); and we are confronted with challenging and inspiring truths about the human condition: life and death; love and betrayal; hope and heroism.

For humans, the entertainment we seek is more than distraction. On a sports field or on an opera stage, we watch because we see a version of ourselves in the play – perhaps a stronger, more talented version of ourselves, or a more tragic or more ambitious version. Nevertheless, when we are in the audience we engage with the drama before us, imagining how we might be in a similar situation. In Verdi’s MacBeth I saw lust for power; I saw caring and honor. I come away from the experience with greater determination to live a life of kindness and gratitude.

PRAYER:

Blessed be the talent and the determination, the dedication and long hours of practice for everyone at the Met opera house.

Blessed be the patrons, opera fans, and supporters of the show – all who believe in the power, beauty and meaning of staging a profound life story.

May people everywhere find what they are seeking in entertainment. May we all be refreshed and inspired, astounded and moved by the performances of our fellows.

Long live art, which moves us; long live sport, which inspires and thrills us.

Blessed be.

Rev. Drew Frantz

October 20, 2026