Maryland Opera Launches ‘New Voices in Opera’
By Afton MarkayMaryland Opera’s newest initiative, “New Voices in Opera,” is set to bring fresh operatic works to the Maryland Opera stage.
“New Voices in Opera” was formed to highlight new works by composers with connected to the greater Baltimore area, as well as promote opera education.
Kicking things off is “The New Voices Discovery” event on Feb. 22. Members of the creative team including librettist Jarrod Lee who will share his inspirations for setting the upcoming opera performances. Following these discussions, Anthony Ballard, Christian Simmons and pianist James Harp will perform excerpts from the operas and answer audience questions. The educational event will take place at Roland Park Community Center on Feb. 22.
The main event is a double bill featuring “Oshun” by B.E. Boykin and “Kandake” by Timothy Amukele, both with librettos by Lee. Jouelle Roberson, Daniel J. Smith, Anthony Ballard, Christian Simmons, and Taylor Boykins make up the cast. Shared stage direction is by Lee and choreographer Shawna Williams. James Harp will conduct.
This performance will also include a mini recital featuring students from Morgan State University and Towson University performing works by African American composers. Both operas are in English and English supertitles will be provided. University students participating in the mini recital will also have masterclass opportunities during the rehearsal process with Amukele.
Following the performance, there will be a Q&A session with the creators and performers moderated by Terry Eberhardt, the Executive Director of The Denyce Graves Foundation. The performance is scheduled for Feb. 28.
In a press release, Lee stated, “It is a thrill to bring these old stories to life in the form of new operas. With a stellar cast drawn from Maryland, DC, and the Greater Baltimore community, Maryland Opera is always working to connect with new audiences.”
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