Singer

Opera Birmingham proudly presents the world premiere of "TOUCH," a groundbreaking new opera that delves into the life of Helen Keller, the celebrated 20th-century deaf and blind author, activist, and her confidant and friend, Anne Sullivan Macy. This compelling narrative picks up where the play "The Miracle Worker" ends, exploring the intricate relationship between Helen Keller, Anne Sullivan Macy, John Macy (Anne’s husband), and Peter Fagan (Helen’s interpreter and star-crossed lover).

Set to captivate audiences on Friday, January 19, 2024, at 7:30 P.M., and Sunday, January 21, 2024, at 2:30 P.M., the opera will be staged at the RMT Arts Campus - Main Theatre, presented by Opera Birmingham. This two-act chamber opera, sung in English with projected English text and interpreted in American Sign Language (ASL), features a score orchestrated for seven players and includes three principal singing roles, an actor playing Helen Keller, and an ensemble of six singers. The production showcases the talents of Alie B. Gorrie as Helen Keller and Michelle Allie Drever as Anne Sullivan Macy, alongside the Alabama Symphony Orchestra.

"TOUCH" addresses themes of disability, agency, and the human condition, representing Opera Birmingham’s commitment to telling diverse stories and ensuring accessibility for all audience members. The opera includes ASL interpreters, Braille program notes, assisted listening devices, and audio description services to accommodate low-vision and low-hearing patrons.

The opera opens as Helen Keller prepares to graduate from Radcliffe College in 1904, with Anne Sullivan by her side. It explores their extraordinary connection, the challenges they face, and the impact of Helen's advocacy work on their relationship. The narrative unfolds through moments of triumph, struggle, and the complexities of love and loss, culminating in a poignant conclusion that captures the essence of their enduring bond.

For tickets, accessibility services, and more information about the "TOUCH" world premiere, visit Opera Birmingham's website or contact the box office. Join us for this highly anticipated event and help bring the story of Helen and Anne to life on the stage.

Touch

Red Mountain Theatre Arts Campus

Considered by many to be Bellini's most beautiful score, La sonnambula was written at a time when stage works involving somnambulism (sleepwalking) where all the rage in Paris.  As was often the case during this period, the work was written with a specific singer in mind, in this case, the legendary soprano Giuditta Pasta.

The story takes placec in a Swiss village. Amina is preparing to marry Elvino. Lisa, who is also in love with Elvino, resents Amina and the joyful celebrations taking place in the village on the occasion of their marriage.  Alesio is interested in Lisa but she rejects him.  A stranger arrives as the notary is in the process of marrying Elvino and Amina.

Michelle Allie Drever

Soprano

Events

Upcoming events

14 - 23 Feb, 2025

La Sonnambula · West Bay Opera

Past events

19 - 21 Jan, 2024

Touch · Opera Birmingham

Future and recently performed repertoire

Amina in La Sonnambula by Bellini

West Bay Opera

About

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