Mvskoke & Chickasaw Families Debut at Kennedy Center in Historic Performance

On Jan. 13, 2025, Mvskoke soprano Kirsten C. Kunkle and Chickasaw composer Jerod Impichchaachaaha’ Tate performed at the Kennedy Center, making debuts for their respective Tribe. Kunkle and her five-year-old daughter Stephanie opened the concert, curated by Tate, with “Mvskoke Lullaby.” The PostClassical Ensemble conducted by Angel Gil-Ordóñez performed Tate’s “Lowak Shoppala,” “Chokfi’,” and selection from “Standing Bear: A Ponca {…}

Mission Opera to Present ‘Girondines’ West Coast Video Premiere

“Girondines” makes its west coast video premiere with Mission Opera. Mvskoke opera singer and librettist Kirsten C. Kunkle and composer Sarah Van Sciver’s new opera “Girondines” showcases the true stories of six women from the French Revolution. “Girondines” explores the tragedy, sacrifice, and remarkable lives of these women –  three heroines who meet a tragic end, and three others navigating {…}

Jerod Impichchaachaaha’ Tate’s ‘Loksi’ Shaali” to Make World Premiere in Oklahoma City

Emmy-winning composer and citizen of the Chickasaw Nation Jerod Impichchaachaaha’ Tate is set to make history with the world premiere of his opera, “Loksi’ Shaali’” (“Shell Shaker”). The world’s first opera composed entirely in an American Indian language, “Loksi’ Shaali” tells the Chickasaw origin story of the tribe’s sacred turtle shell shakers, integral to traditional stomp dancing and social songs, {…}

Wilmington Concert Opera Announces 2023 Season ‘Back to Before’

The women and minority-run Wilmington Concert Opera (WCO) has announced its 2023 season, “Back to Before,” marking its return to its pandemic-postponed 2020 programming. Here’s what’s in store for Delaware opera fans. In April, WCO will serve up one of two mainstage shows—a first for WCO— starting with “La serva padrona.” Pergolesi’s quintessential intermezzo, stars baritone John Michael as Uberto {…}