CALM ON CATFISH ROW
Porgy and Bess
Long considered daring and controversial, the Gershwin duo's classically American "Porgy and Bess" has delighted audiences since its debut in 1935, though it was only relatively recently that the work was even considered a legitimate opera. Its creative musical references to American jazz, blues and folk music of the time showcased the innovation and talent of composer George Gershwin, and the popularity of songs such as "Summertime" have permeated into pop music culture today.
Now performed widely throughout the world, "Porgy
and Bess" comes to the LA Opera starting May
4. A chronicle of the life and struggles of an African-American
community on the fictitious Catfish Row of South Carolina,
this production by the Washington National Opera features
such timeless songs as "Bess, You Is My Woman
Now" and "It Ain't Necessarily So."
The opera stars Kevin Short and Alfred Walker as Porgy
and Morenike Fadayomi and Indira Mahajan as Bess.
When:
May 4-20. Check the website for showtimes.
Where: Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, 135 N. Grand Ave., Los Angeles
Admission: Tickets start at $35
Information: 213-972-7219, www.losangelesopera.com
For
more events, see our Los Angeles What's Going On page.
PNH022807 |
