Utah Opera opens its 2020-21 season with a double bill of one-act operas that explore the timely themes of isolation and need for human connection.
Acclaimed dramatic soprano and Utah native Wendy Bryn Harmer, who has sung in multiple Metropolitan Opera cycles of Wagner’s “The Ring,” makes her Utah Opera debut performing the role of Elle at select performances.
Director Kristine McIntyre’s English update of Jean Cocteau’s original libretto for The Human Voice brings the story into the present and shows that while our communication devices may have changed, the complication of relationships has not.
Gentleman’s Island, inspired by the poem “Etiquette” from William S. Gilbert of Gilbert & Sullivan fame, comes to life with two Utah Opera regulars, tenor Brian Stucki and baritone Christopher Clayton.
A second cast, featured at Oct 10 & 17 1 PM matinee performances, features Utah Opera Resident Artists Edith Grossman as Elle, Daniel O’Hearn as Mr. Gray, and Brandon Bell as Mr. Somers.
Plot Summary:
Called “an intimate view of a woman’s emotional spiral” (Meghan Klinkenborg, Schmopera.com), Francis Poulenc’s The Human Voice (La voix humaine) tells the story of Elle’s final phone call with her former lover, who is now in love with another. As she attempts to reconcile their relationship, the phones and other mobile devices that are supposed to help them communicate, keep them disconnected and apart instead.
Joseph Horovitz’ comedy Gentleman’s Island is the tale of two English gentlemen, a tea taster and indigo importer, who are stranded on the same deserted island, but ought not to speak to each other as they are gentlemen who have not been properly introduced. In time, they agree that communication and cooperation is permissible, but that relationship is complicated when a mutual friend from their past appears on the island in a very unbecoming way.
Phone: 801-533-6683
2020/10/09 - 2020/10/18
Additional time info:
Utah Symphony | Utah Opera is committed to following policies that effectively mitigate the spread of Covid-19 as we come back together to perform in the fall. We are working in conjunction with Salt Lake County Arts and Culture to follow CDC, state, and county guidelines to maintain a sanitary facility and model best practices as an important part of the community. As restrictions ease, we will be thoughtful in planning for gatherings in public spaces, continue to stay informed on the changing landscape, and act responsibly to preserve public health. For the detailed plan visit usuo.org.
Capitol Theatre
50 W 200 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84101