This weekend, the Pittsburgh Opera is set to present the world premiere of “Woman with Eyes Closed” by Jennifer Higdon. The work is experimental in nature as it needs to be seen at least twice, as each night of the production has the possibility of a completely new ending.

Over the years, Higdon has become one of the most acclaimed composers for her diverse range. Her first opera, “Cold Mountain,” won the International Opera Award for Best World Premiere, and the opera recording was nominated for two Grammy awards. It was performed at the Santa Fe Opera, North Carolina Opera, and Opera Philadelphia, where it became the third highest selling opera in Opera Philadelphia’s history.

This time, her new work tells the story of when Mona finds a mysterious suitcase filled with stolen masterpieces, she must grapple with a choice to save these priceless paintings or save her son, the thief.

For the world premiere of “Woman with Eyes Closed,” the Pittsburgh Opera has already added performances for the work due to high demand. For those not at the world premiere, Higdon has a new work premiering with the Knoxville Symphony this fall.

Recordings 

Audiences who want to hear Higdon’s operatic work, Penatone released “Cold Mountain” featuring Nathan Gunn, Isabel Leonard, Jay Hunter Morris, and Emily Fons.