Sweat & Labor Songs

Friday, November 7 at 7:30PM
Saturday, November 8 at 7:30PM
Sunday, November 9 at 2:30PM

Music by Juliet Palmer
Libretto by Anna Chatterton

Directed by Kit Wilder, this year’s Opera Up Close offers a poignant meditation on the human cost behind the global garment industry, pairing a searing new opera with historic songs of worker solidarity.

The evening opens with Labor Songs, a recital of selections drawn from The Workers’ Songbooks of 1934 and 1935, performed by featured soloists who bring to life forgotten voices of resistance and resilience.

At the heart of the program is Sweat, an a cappella opera by composer Juliet Palmer and librettist Anna Chatterton that brings to life the experiences of women in a garment factory. Blending contemporary dance, operatic storytelling and vivid imagery, Sweat explores the aspirations, endurance and ethical questions woven into the global fashion trade — juxtaposing the dreams of workers with the glamour of high-end design.

Directed by Kit Wilder
Conducted by Richard W. Robbins (Conducting November 7 and November 9)
Assistant Conductor: Juan Dominguez (Conducting November 8)
Vocal Coach: Maja Tremiszewska
Assistant Director: Emma Faraone

Suggested Show Rating: R

This production contains mature themes, including references to violence, abuse, sexual assault, discrimination and/or bigotry, suicide and death. It also features a gunshot effect. Please be aware that our actors make full use of the space, including the aisles and other audience spaces. Contact the Box Office for more information.