The performance ends, the curtain descends and the audience jumps to its feet in ecstatic applause. The only problem is it was an average performance. Applause was warranted, but not a standing ovation.
Originally, such a response had to be earned by the most extraordinary performers and productions. As a young boy, I practically grew up in the San Francisco Opera House. People yelled out “Brava” and “Encore.” After the final curtain came down, roses…