The Return of An American Classic

“It has been nearly thirty years since the George Gershwin opera “Porgy and Bess” has been performed at The Metropolitan Opera House in New York City.  In 1985, the first Met performance was headed by an all-star cast which included legendary singers Simon Estes, Grace Bumbry, Florence Quivar, Gregg Baker and Bruce Hubbard. Then and perhaps now, the themes of African-American life that are explored in the work may have contributed to its absence from the prestigious house.  With the passing of time and a deeper understanding of black culture, the quintessential American opera was the opening night performance of The Metropolitan Opera’s 2019-2020 season.”

My first freelance assignment for Prince George’s Suite Magazine took me to New York City where I saw the opening night performance of Gershwin’s opera, “Porgy and Bess” with soprano Angel Blue and bass-baritone Eric Owens in the title roles.

Click here to read the feature story.