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Franco Zeffirelli, the internationally acclaimed director and designer of numerous operas and films, will be honored at The Metropolitan Opera Guild's annual luncheon on Monday, March 31 at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel.

A sung tribute by Angela Gheorghiu and a spoken tribute by Jeremy Irons are scheduled highlights of the event, along with newly created video appraisals of Zeffirelli's life and work and tributes from other stars.

Over a nearly 35-year period, starting in 1964, Zeffirelli has directed such operas for the Met as Falstaff, Antony and Cleopatra, Otello, Tosca, Carmen, and La Traviata. He was nominated for the Academy Award for Romeo & Juliet and for the art direction of the 1983 film version of La Traviata. His other films include The Champ, Jane Eyre, and Tea with Mussolini.

Tickets are $250-$400 and can be ordered by.calling 212-769-7009.