Famed tenor Luciano Pavarotti had a reputation for enjoying his food, even going as far as squirreling away snacks around the Met to sustain himself during performances. The Met’s director, Peter Gelb, shared this anecdote during a backstage tour, revealing that Pavarotti would keep secret stashes of his favorite pasta in the wings so he could sneak off stage between arias for a quick snack. The legendary Maestro had a special connection to the Met, finding fame in the USA after a memorable performance in 1972 that left the audience in awe of his vocal prowess, particularly his nine high Cs in the signature aria.
Pavarotti’s culinary habits were not limited to backstage snacking. He also caused a sensation on televised operas with his performances in the first “Live From The Met” in 1977, drawing one of the biggest audiences ever for a televised opera with his rendition of “La Boheme.” In 1976, Pavarotti went on a diet with the help of medical staff in Modena, allowing himself only 1,800 calories a day, one-sixth of his usual intake. Despite the strict diet, he mentioned that he could still have everything he wanted, as long as it was in small portions, including the 60 grams of pasta he was allowed. One can only wonder if his doctors were aware of his secret backstage pasta reserves.
During a special tour given by Gelb for friends of society grand dame Barbara Tober, it was revealed that Pavarotti’s penchant for pasta wasn’t limited to hidden caches at the Met. The tour was in preparation for the annual On Stage at The Met Gala, set to honor Tober on May 20th. The event will be chaired by prominent figures such as starchitect Peter Marino and Frank Sciamewith, with a leadership committee including notable names like Deborah Boarda, Joel Ehrenkranz, Carol and John French, Agnes Hsu-Tang and Oscar Tang, Leonard and Judy Lauder, Daisy Soros, and Henry Timms.
Pavarotti’s legacy as one of the “Three Tenors,” alongside Placido Domingo and Jose Carrera, continues to be celebrated, with his contributions to opera being remembered by audiences worldwide. His ability to captivate crowds with his powerful voice and charismatic stage presence has cemented his status as one of the greatest tenors of all time. Despite his larger-than-life persona on stage, stories of his love for pasta and dedication to his craft offstage reveal a more human side to the iconic Maestro.
The behind-the-scenes glimpse into Pavarotti’s life offers a unique perspective on the man behind the music, showcasing his passion for both food and opera. His discipline in maintaining his vocal abilities through careful dietary choices and his indulgence in pasta as a source of comfort and sustenance highlight the complexity of his character. While his onstage performances dazzled audiences, it is the playful anecdotes of his backstage antics, such as hiding pasta reserves in the wings of the Met, that provide a more intimate portrait of the legendary tenor.
As preparations for the On Stage at The Met Gala honoring Barbara Tober continue, the legacy of Luciano Pavarotti looms large over the event, reminding attendees of his enduring impact on the world of opera. Through stories of his backstage snacks, televised performances, and dedication to his craft, Pavarotti emerges as a multifaceted figure whose talent and charm continue to resonate with audiences long after his passing. The combination of his larger-than-life personality and his love for the simple pleasures of life, such as a plate of rigatoni, paint a portrait of a man whose passion for music was only matched by his zest for living.
