Monster Mash: Breaking news and headlines

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-- Are they nuts?: In these economic times, Los Angeles Opera faces a $32-million price tag for its ambitious ‘Ring.’

-- Here’s a cash source: Placido Domingo wins the first $1-million Birgit Nilsson prize for ‘unrivalled contributions’ to opera.

-- If you’ve gotta go...: A helpful tip for those planning to attend L.A. Opera’s intermission-less ‘Das Rheingold.’

-- Bad news on Broadway: Despite star power of Jane Fonda, ‘33 Variations’ has a tough time finding backing. Neil LaBute’s ‘Reasons to Be Pretty’ also not yet capitalized.

-- Good news on Broadway: Will Ferrell’s ‘You’re Welcome America’ recoups investment of $2.09 million.

-- Long-expected news on Broadway: Goodman Theater’s revival of ‘Desire Under the Elms,’ with Brian Dennehy, Carla Gugino and Pablo Schreiber, will transfer to Broadway in April.

-- Huh?: Orange County Performing Arts Center plans a ‘completely staged developmental production’ of a ‘Broadway-hopeful’ musical. Whew -- read here to find out what that means.

-- Maybe it’s the subject matter: Malta won’t see a production of Anthony Neilson’s disturbing play ‘Stitching,’ but Los Angeles will.

-- La Vie Boheme: Corona del Mar High School drama teacher decides to fight for his canceled student production of ‘Rent.’

-- A loss for L.A.: Architectural photographer Marvin Rand dies at 84.

-- A high note: Classical music lovers pony up $1.24 million for their beloved KUSC-FM.

-- But what about his umbrella?: New York Philharmonic’s concertmaster leaves his 1727 violin in a taxi.

-- How do you look in tights?: The ‘Spider-Man’ musical is looking to cast Green Goblin and other roles.

-- Lisa Fung

Photo (top): Los Angeles Opera’s ‘Das Rheingold.’ Credit: Lawrence K. Ho / Los Angeles Times

Photo (bottom): Jane Fonda, star of ’33 Variations.’ Credit: Associated Press