Basically it is director-oriented to the point that the original meaning of the opera is secondary to the director's "vision". So, operas are frequently set in different periods other than the one for which the opera was written; the director will try to "make a point" that has nothing to do with the original work. They will often add overt sexuality and even extraneous nudity in order to shock the audience.
Supposedly, they are trying to bring in new audiences; but I think they are driving away the core fan base.
My mom saw a great opera at the met; I just missed being able to go (had to get home to FL) and I wanted SO much to go. Can’t remember what it was but it was something traditional; maybe Madame Butterfly.
When I got home she called and told me it was horrible. She said I don’t know what they thought they were doing but it had weird costumes and settings and she had no idea what was going on - one of those strange avant garde things. They went with a whole bunch of friends and everyone hated it.