UPDATE: Pittsburgh Opera: High Priest of Dagon under the weather

Baritone Kim Josephson has withdrawn from the Pittsburgh Opera's "Samson & Dalila" due to illness, the company just reported. He sang the High Priest of Dagon, and taking that role for the final shows Oct. 24 and Oct. 26 at the Benedum Center now will be bass-baritone Mark S. Doss (right). He sang Amonasro in the Pitt Opera production of "Aida" last spring.

Now, if you remember, that "Aida" was the production that had numerous cancellations in it, both by the tenor leading to conductor Antony Walker singing from the stage, and by Stephanie Blythe. She is now singing Dalila, so here's hoping the bug doesn't get to her again!

UPDATE: A late development has Doss singing the role of the High Priest of Dagon from the pit and Kim Josephson mimicing the singing from the stage. This happens from time to time in opera companies, most recently at Pittsburgh Opera with Jane Eaglen in "Fidelio." Just give in to the illusion and enjoy!