Porgy and Bess Tickets

Composed by the famous American composer, George Gershwin, Porgy and Bess had its first-ever performance on the 30th of September, 1935, in the city of Boston. It was an adaptation of the play Porgy, by DuBose Heyward, which was also an adaptation of the namesake novel, by Heyward. The original opera was iconic because it featured a cast of African-American singers who were all classically trained musicians. This bold artistic choice was not accepted well at the time, however, the show exploded in popularity after it was performed at the Houston Grand Opera in 1976. Porgy and Bess is essentially a folk tale. Gershwin didn’t want to lose that essence, so he composed his own folk and spiritual songs that were designed especially for the opera.

The production by James Robinson features Eric Owens and Angel Blue, who take up the title roles. Eric Owens is an American bass-baritone who has performed in both classical opera as well as more modern works. He has won two Grammy Awards, a Marian Anderson Award, and also placed first in the Plácido Domingo Operalia Competition. Moreover, Owens won the MET Opera National Council Auditions in 1996. Angel Blue is an American soprano who also performs in classical crossovers. She is world-renowned for her bright higher register and a ‘smoky’ middle register. Blue’s ability to seamlessly switch between a classical and contemporary sound, while still having mesmerising timbre, has made her one of the most popular operatic singers. With David Robertson conducting a stellar cast, the production is highly anticipated. The Guardian commended the show, when it first premiered back in 2018, saying that it was one of the best renditions of George Gershwin’s opera.

The Story

The opera follows the same plot that the stage play depicts. Porgy and Bess showcases the story of a black street-tramp, Porgy, who lives in the Charleston slums. A disabled man who moves around in a cart, Porgy finds himself enthralled by Bess, a sensual woman. Bess, however, is involved with Crown, an aggressive thug, and Sportin’ Life, a drug dealer. When Crown murders a man and disappears, trying to stay under the radar, Bess finds shelter with Porgy. However, when Crown returns, will Porgy be able to protect Bess from her possessive lover, and take a final stand?

Good For

Fans of George Gershwin | Fans of Crossover Operas

Reviews

“James Robinson’s staging is timeless but wholehearted and handsome. If you’re going to stage Gershwin’s opera, this is how to do it.”
- The Guardian