Singer

Opera Philadelphia proudly presents the American premiere of "The Listeners," a thrilling new opera with music by Missy Mazzoli and libretto by Royce Vavrek. This captivating work, based on an original story by Jordan Tannahill, is performed in English with English supertitles and explores the seductive power of cults and charismatic leaders in a divided nation. The opera delves into the lengths Americans are willing to go to find a sense of place and purpose, and how confident, charming leaders can exploit these needs.

Set in a southwestern U.S. suburb, "The Listeners" follows a middle-class mother, soprano Nicole Heaston in her company debut, who notices a mysterious hum that only a select few can hear. As a community organization forms to investigate, meetings led by the de facto leader Kevin Burdette take on a cult-like atmosphere, leading to a potentially destructive path.

The opera is scheduled for performances at the Academy of Music on Wednesday, September 25 at 7:00 p.m., Friday, September 27 at 8:00 p.m., and Sunday, September 29 at 2:00 p.m. The runtime is approximately 2 hours and 23 minutes, including one 20-minute intermission.

"The Listeners" is a co-commission and co-production with Norwegian National Opera and Lyric Opera of Chicago. This season's production is supported by the Artistry Now Matching Fund, Barbara Augusta Teichert, and major support from The Pew Center for Arts & Heritage, with additional support from OPERA America’s Opera Grants for Female Composers program.

The cast and creative team feature Corrado Rovaris as conductor, Lileana Blain-Cruz as director, and a talented ensemble including Troy Cook, Lindsey Reynolds, Kevin Burdette, Aaron Crouch, and many more, bringing this powerful story to life.

Don't miss the opportunity to experience this groundbreaking opera that examines the sound of a divided nation through the lens of an extraordinary musical and theatrical journey.

EPSG:4326

The Listeners

Academy of Music

Experience the timeless romance and heartache of Puccini's "La bohème" at the Santa Fe Opera, from June 27 to August 23, 2025. Set against the backdrop of 1920s Paris, this classic opera tells the story of six Bohemians navigating love, longing, and artistic ambition during a golden age of artistic revolution. With music by Giacomo Puccini and libretto by Luigi Illica and Giuseppe Giacosa, "La bohème" is performed in Italian with instant translation screens in English and Spanish, ensuring an accessible and immersive experience for all attendees.

The opera unfolds in four acts, beginning on Christmas Eve in a cold attic where the poet Rodolfo and painter Marcello struggle to keep warm, leading to encounters of love at first sight, festive celebrations, and ultimately, poignant farewells and heartbreak. The production boasts approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes of captivating music and drama, including a 25-minute intermission.

This 2025 season features an exceptional cast, including soprano Sylvia D'Eramo as Mimì, tenor Long Long as Rodolfo, baritone Szymon Mechliński as Marcello, soprano Emily Pogorelc as Musetta, and more, under the baton of conductor Iván López-Reynoso and direction by James Robinson. The creative team also includes scenic designer Allen Moyer, costume designer Constance Hoffman, and lighting designer Duane Schuler, promising a visually stunning rendition of this beloved opera.

Performances are scheduled throughout the summer, offering multiple opportunities to witness this masterpiece at one of the most beautiful outdoor venues in the United States. Whether it's your first opera or your hundredth, "La bohème" at the Santa Fe Opera is an event not to be missed, promising an unforgettable evening of passion, friendship, and artistry under the stars.

Kevin Burdette

Bass-baritone

Events

25 - 29 Sep, 2024

The Listeners · Opera Philadelphia

Jun 27 - Aug 23, 2025

La bohème · Santa Fe Opera

Future and recently performed repertoire

Baritone in Messiah by Handel

Alabama Symphony Orchestra

Benoît/Alcindoro in La bohème by Puccini

Santa Fe Opera

About

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