As a huge "Simpsons" fan (patiently awaiting the full-length film this summer), I watched many episodes of creator Matt Groening's "spin-off" 'toon, "Futurama."

But even after spending the last month studying Messiaen's "Turangalila-Symphonie" in advance of this weekend's Pittsburgh Symphony performances of it at Heinz Hall (and having known about it for years), I was shocked to realize one of the main characters is named Turanga Leela!

Turanga Leela, of course, is the spaceship's cyclops captain, voiced by Katey Sagal. But how in the world did I miss that Messiaen connection? In my defense, the character usually was referred to as just Leela.

The obvious link between the two was brought to my attention by a reader, so thanks, Michal. The letter:

Mr. Druckenbrod:

I was surprised to see that in your thorough, informative piece on Messiaen's Turangalila Symphonie, you neglected to mention a curious and delightful pop-culture connection. I refer, of course, to the work's namesake, "Futurama's" one-eyed spaceship captain, Turanga Leela.

Regards,

Michal Salat

First Published: May 31, 2007, 5:30 p.m.