May 11-19, 2019

Performed in English with English supertitles

Following a successful production of “27”, Michigan Opera Theatre is excited to present another work by composer Ricky Ian Gordon with “The Grapes of Wrath.” The heart-wrenching opera, based on the classic novel by John Steinbeck, tells the story of the Joad family on their quest for survival during the 1930s Dust Bowl. Featuring folksy, jazz-inspired music, “The Grapes of Wrath” has been called “the great American opera.”

Production Highlights:
· Based on classic American novel by John Steinbeck.
· Conductorial debut by Michael Christie, directed by James Robinson.
· Featuring mezzo-soprano Katherine Goeldner as Ma Joad, baritone Tobias Greenhalgh as Tom Joad, soprano Deanna Breiwick as Rosasharn, and mezzo-soprano Deborah Nansteel as Granma.
· A new co-production with Opera Theatre of Saint Louis.

This heart-wrenching opera, based on the classic novel by John Steinbeck, tells the story of the Joad family on their quest for survival during the 1930s Dust Bowl. Featuring folksy, jazz-inspired music by Ricky Ian Gordon, The Grapes of Wrath has been called “the great American opera.”

The Grapes of Wrath
Opera in two acts
Ricky Ian Gordon, composer and Michael Korie, librettist
Based on the novel by John Steinbeck
Premiere: Saint Paul 2007

This Production
Conducted by Michael Christie | Directed by James Robinson
A co-production with Opera Theatre of St. Louis
Sung in English with supertitle projections
Running time about 2 ½ hours