Guests: Ian Cusson, Composer; Kanika Ambrose,  Librettist; Jorell Williams, Baritone

We talk about the upcoming WORLD PREMIERE of the Tapestry Opera/Obsidian Theatre Group  production of OF THE SEA (opens MARCH 25-APRIL 1, 2023). The work is a powerful new opera flowing with hope and heartbreak, written by Kanika Ambrose, composed by Ian Cusson—both are guests on this podcast. Also joining the podcast is American baritone, Jorell Williams, who stars as Maduka in the production.

A little bit about the opera (more available here):

Under the crushing power of the Atlantic Ocean, a mythical world rises from the depths Of The Sea. 

A father will do anything to save his daughter. Of the Sea follows the story of Maduka, his daughter Binyelum, and fellow Africans thrown overboard during the Middle Passage who now populate mythical underwater kingdoms that span the ocean floor.  Amidst the waves, fiery plans for revenge are made, a parent is blinded by love for their child, and a fight against fate begins. 

In the cold, murky waters, everyone dreams of seeing the sun again.  Directed by renowned Canadian actor and director Philip Akin, and Music Direction by Jennifer Tung. With The Canadian Opera Company Orchestra, Perryn Leech, General Director, Johannes Debus, Music Director.

All episodes of The Opera Glasses podcast are hosted by the editor of Opera Canada, currently Michael Jones after Elizabeth Bowman hosted seasons 1 and 2. Follow Opera Canada on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and Visit OperaCanada.ca for all of your Canadian Opera news and reviews.