Arts

Follow PBS NewsHour’s complete coverage on the art and entertainment world.

Oct 06

The rising opera star who traded layups for librettos

When J’Nai Bridges’ pro sports ambitions suddenly fell apart, she started focusing intently on developing her voice. Now, at the age of 29, the American mezzo-soprano is performing major roles for some of the world’s most renowned opera companies.

In August, a 6.2-magnitude earthquake shook central Italy, killing almost 300 people, leaving thousands homeless, and causing an estimated $5 billion in property damage. Today, rescue efforts center on saving the area’s cultural artifacts. NewsHour Special Correspondent Christopher Livesay reports.