Ricky Ian Gordon's highly anticipated opera, 'This House,' is set to make its world premiere at the Opera Theater of Saint Louis in June 2025. The libretto for the opera is written by the Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Lynn Nottage and her daughter, Ruby Aiyo Gerber. Originally scheduled to debut this year, the commission for 'This House' was announced in 2022 and has been eagerly awaited by opera enthusiasts.
Conducted by Daniela Candillari, the production of 'This House' will be a significant highlight of the Opera Theater's 50th season. Candillari, who began serving as the principal conductor in 2022, has been instrumental in introducing world premieres to the opera world. Under her leadership, the Opera Theater presented the premiere of Rene Orth's '10 Days in a Madhouse' at Opera Philadelphia and Jeanine Tesori's 'Grounded' at the Washington National Opera.
The contract for Candillari as principal conductor has been extended for an additional four years through the 2028 festival season. This decision reflects the Opera Theater's confidence in her talent and artistic vision. Candillari, who is 44 years old, has become renowned for her ability to bring out the best in contemporary operas and is highly regarded in the field.
In addition to 'This House,' Candillari has exciting plans for the upcoming season at the Opera Theater. She will be conducting the company premiere of Handel's 'Julius Caesar' starting on June 9. This will be a thrilling opportunity for opera-goers to experience the timeless grandeur of Handel's masterpiece under Candillari's masterful direction.
Lynn Nottage, known for her exceptional works such as 'Ruined' and 'Sweat,' both of which earned her the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 2009 and 2017 respectively, brings her extraordinary storytelling skills to 'This House.' Collaborating with her daughter, Ruby Aiyo Gerber, Nottage explores the lives of the inhabitants of a Harlem brownstone and their stories spanning a century. This promises to be a poignant and captivating opera that delves into themes of community, history, and the human experience.
Gerber, who wrote the libretto for 'This House' while studying at Brown University, demonstrates her own talent as a writer and storyteller. The combination of Nottage's renowned abilities and Gerber's fresh perspective is sure to create a powerful and thought-provoking opera that resonates with audiences.
As the anticipation builds, opera enthusiasts eagerly await the world premiere of 'This House' in 2025. The Opera Theater of Saint Louis continues its commitment to presenting groundbreaking and meaningful works, and 'This House' is poised to be a significant addition to their repertoire. With Candillari's continued leadership, this production promises to be an unforgettable experience for both opera lovers and newcomers alike.
