Langston Hughes: A Lyrical Life celebrates the life and legacy of one of America’s most influential literary voices. Born in 1901 in Joplin, Missouri, Hughes was an early innovator of jazz poetry and a leading figure of the Harlem Renaissance. This semi-staged musical program and literary experience honors Hughes’s extraordinary legacy and amplifies his singular voice and texts, illuminating the universal human experiences of joy, struggle, and aspiration.

EPSG:4326

Langston Hughes: A Lyrical Life

Lyric Opera of Kansas City

Presented for the first time in Lyric Opera history, Porgy and Bess is the quintessential American opera. The source of some of the twentieth century's most beloved songs—including “Summertime”—this jazzy Gershwin score is unforgettable. The opera paints a vivid picture of life in the Charleston neighborhood Catfish Row, where a poignant “opposites attract” romance unfolds alongside a powerful portrait of a community that unites in the face of tragedy and triumph.

The Gershwins®' Porgy and Bess

A magical opera with jaw-dropping singing, considered a crown jewel of bel canto opera, Rossini's glittery version of the fairytale classic lets our heroine drive her own fate—no fairy godmother needed. It's not just beauty that wins the prince's heart (though she does get a stunning gown); instead, love and kindness triumph over greed and vanity. Rossini's signature mix of vocal virtuosity, lyrical beauty, and zany hijinks brings this sweet tale to life.

MiKayla Lynn Hatfield

Events

Past events

Mar 15 - Apr 2, 2026

Langston Hughes: A Lyrical Life · Lyric Opera of Kansas City

Feb 28 - Mar 8, 2026

The Gershwins®' Porgy and Bess · Lyric Opera of Kansas City

Future and recently performed repertoire

Strawberry Woman in Porgy and Bess by Gershwin

Lyric Opera of Kansas City

Clorinda in Cinderella by Rossini

Lyric Opera of Kansas City

About

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