The Chicago Opera Theater is set to open its 50^th Anniversary season with David T. Little’s “Soldier Songs.”

The haunting, heavy-metal infused theatrical cantata about the psychological impact of war is set to star baritone Nathan Gunn as The Soldier. Conducted by Chicago Opera Theater Elizabeth Morse and Genius Music Director Lidiya Yankovskaya, the opera will be performed on Oct. 5 at Epiphany Center for the Arts 201 S Ashland Ave.

In a statement, Lawrence Edelson, Chicago Opera Theater Edlis Neeson General Director said, “I am thrilled to be starting my tenure with Chicago Opera Theater and COT’s celebratory 50th Anniversary season with “Soldier Songs.” I have had the pleasure of collaborating with David T. Little on two of his other operas – “JFK” and “Vinkensport,” or “The Finch Opera” – so I am truly excited to be able to share the opera that really launched him onto the opera stage with Chicago audiences. COT is known across the country for its commitment to new and eclectic repertoire, and for extraordinary musical and theatrical performances. I cannot think of a better way to begin our next 50 years than by having Nathan Gunn join our Music Director, Lidiya Yankovskaya, to bring “Soldier Songs” to life.”

“Soldier Songs” is a 60-minute production presented without intermission.