Costume Designer

**American Apollo at Des Moines Metro Opera**

**World Premiere: July 13, 2024**

Des Moines Metro Opera proudly presents the full-length world premiere of "American Apollo," a groundbreaking opera that delves into the life of Thomas Eugene McKeller, a Black hotel worker whose story intertwines with that of renowned portraitist John Singer Sargent. This compelling narrative, brought to life by the talents of composer Damien Geter and librettist Lila Palmer, explores themes of erasure, the white gaze, and the complex relationship between McKeller and Sargent.

**Performance Schedule:**
- **July 13, 2024, at 8:00 PM** - SOLD OUT
- **July 18, 2024, at 7:30 PM**
- **July 19, 2024, at 1:00 PM** - Best availability

**Venue:** The Lauridsen Opera Center, Des Moines Metro Opera

**Language:** Sung in English with English supertitles

**Estimated Run Time:** 2 hours, 30 minutes, including one 20-minute intermission

**Cast Highlights:**
- **Justin Austin** as Thomas Eugene McKeller
- **William Burden** as John Singer Sargent (Company Debut)
- **Mary Dunleavy** as Isabella Stewart Gardner
- **Conducted by** David Neely, DMMO Marshall and Judy Flapan Music Director and Principal Conductor
- **Directed by** Shaun Patrick Tubbs (Company Debut)

**About the Creators:**
- **Damien Geter**, an acclaimed composer known for blending classical music with elements from the Black diaspora, aims to further social justice through his music.
- **Lila Palmer**, a librettist celebrated for her warmth, clarity, and stylistic flexibility, bridges the gap between the world of the classically trained voice and creative storytelling.

**Tickets:** Available for purchase. For sold-out performances, fill out the Ticket Request Form or call 515-209-3257.

Join us for a mesmerizing evening at the Des Moines Metro Opera, where history, art, and the untold stories of America come to life through the powerful medium of opera. Don't miss the opportunity to witness the world premiere of "American Apollo" – a testament to the enduring impact of art and the complexities of human relationships.

EPSG:4326

American Apollo

Simpson College

**Penelope at Signature Theatre: A DC Premiere Not to Be Missed**

Signature Theatre is thrilled to present the DC premiere of "Penelope," a captivating new musical that reimagines the story of Penelope, the wife of Odysseus, from the classic tale of The Odyssey. Running from March 5 to April 28, 2024, this production promises to be an unforgettable experience that combines soulful music with a witty and thoughtful narrative.

**Event Details:**

- **Dates:** March 5 - April 28, 2024
- **Location:** Signature Theatre, 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington, Virginia 22206
- **Running Time:** Approximately 70 minutes with no intermission
- **Age Recommendation:** Teens and up due to mild adult language and theatrical haze

**About the Show:**

Fed up after twenty years of waiting on the small island kingdom of Ithaca, Penelope, with a glass of bourbon in hand, takes the microphone to share her side of the story. This musical flips the script on the traditional narrative, allowing Penelope to step out of the background and into the spotlight, showcasing her strength, wit, and resilience.

**Specialty Nights:**

- **Discussion Nights:** March 19 & April 10, 2024
- **Pride Night:** April 5, 2024
- **Masks Required Performances:** March 19, 7:30 PM & April 7, 2 PM

**Creative Team:**

- **Music & Lyrics:** Alex Bechtel
- **Book:** Alex Bechtel, Grace McLean & Eva Steinmetz
- **Directed by:** Eva Steinmetz
- **Starring:** Jessica Phillips as Penelope

**Additional Information:**

This production is sponsored by The Jenna and Paul Segal Foundation and Penelope Bourbon, with additional support from Dan and Gloria Logan. The world premiere was originally produced by Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival, and the show has been developed through various prestigious residencies.

**Special Event: Inside Signature with Jessica Phillips**

- **Date:** April 4, 2024, 1-2 PM
- **Location:** The Mead Lobby and Streaming Online
- **Admission:** FREE, No reservation required

Join us for a special session with Jessica Phillips, who makes her Signature debut as Penelope. Learn about her training, career, and connection with the Greek myth heroine she portrays.

**Tickets and More Information:**

Don't miss your chance to experience this exceptional show. For tickets, visit the Signature Theatre box office or our website. For more details, including a seating chart and content warnings, please check our official event page.

Prepare to be mesmerized by "Penelope" – a unique blend of myth and modern storytelling, brought to life through exceptional performances and a compelling narrative.

Penelope

Signature Theatre

No one would accuse Clyde of having a soft heart. Sure, she hires former convicts for the greasy kitchen of her truck-stop sandwich joint, but she knows what they owe her and holds that power tight. Her line cooks might be stuck, but their hopes haven’t flickered out yet, fed by tentative connections and a fierce competition to create the perfect sandwich. Pulitzer-Prize winner Lynn Nottage’s sweet and savory comedy trades in wonder, Wonder Bread, and the healing powers of food.

Danielle Preston

Costume Designer

Events

Past events

13 - 19 Jul, 2024

American Apollo · Des Moines Metro Opera

Mar 5 - Apr 28, 2024

Penelope · Signature Theatre

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