Behind the mask

As the Lyric prepares a Verdi opera, real-life parallels emerge

By PAUL HORSLEY [The Kansas City Star, 6 Mar 05]

In the resonant, garishly lighted basement of Trinity United Methodist Church, art is imitating life.

A tall, rugged baritone with reddish-blond hair and goatee is in agony. A rehearsal pianist pounds out tortured harmonies. A conductor and stage director watch, alert.

Bystanders also watch, almost embarrassed, as Jeffrey Kneebone exposes his soul.

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