Backstage At Launch Of Metropolitan Opera's 59th Season

The Big Opera House in New York celebrates its 59th year, attracting a distinguished audience. Violinist Fritz Kreisler is back in action, and the cocktail bar opens with a toast to the new season. Backstage, there's excitement over Mozart's 'Marriage of Figaro,' with Elizabeth Rethberg and Ensio Pinsa starring. Director Edward Johnson signals the start of a grand opera, though recording is not allowed, the visual spectacle is rich.

What does the cocktail bar offer to toast the new season?

Who gives the signal for the performance to begin?