"Every Man Jack," a theatrical exploration of Sonoma's most famous historical figure and literary icon, Jack London, will be performed at the Evert B. Person Theatre at Sonoma State University on November 11, 12, 15, 18 and 19.
The provocative, newly commissioned opera is inspired by London's groundbreaking biographical work, "John Barleycorn." It tells the compelling story, through a Vaudeville-like format, of the adventurer, writer, and ultimately flawed genius's lifelong struggle with alcohol.
Written by Grammy award-winning composer Libby Larsen and celebrated librettist Philip Littell, "Every Man Jack" premieres as part of the Green Music Festival at SSU in what promises to be a musical event of national significance.
"Jack London is perhaps the outstanding cultural icon of Northern California, a quintessentially American figure -- young, dashing, brave, heroic -- who remains to this day the most widely translated writer that America has produced," noted Hillary Costin, president of the Sonoma City Opera's Board of Directors. "But we rarely focus on the fact that alcohol was an ever-present factor in his relationships, his travels, and his work."
The commissioning of "Every Man Jack" is testimony to the growing status of the Sonoma City Opera. Artistic director and producer, Antoinette Kuhry, whose vision of an opera that would showcase Sonoma's most intriguing and complex literary artist, has been able to assemble a wonderful group of outstanding artists to create and perform the piece.
Composer Libby Larsen is one of America's most prolific and most performed living composers, with more than 200 works spanning nearly every musical genre to her credit.
Librettist Philip Littell has provided texts for a roll call of notable American composers, including Andre Previn (A Streetcar Named Desire) and Conrad Susa (The Dangerous Liaisons).
Internationally esteemed baritone Rod Gilfry, is cast as Jack London. He is joined by an acclaimed group of singers, working in the national and international music/opera world: Jennifer Lane, John Duykers, Susan Narucki, Ilana Davidson and Brad Bradshaw.
Mary Chun, talented conductor of San Francisco's new music ensemble, Earplay, is the musical director. Stage director Joseph Graves, currently the artistic director of the Beijing Institute of World Theatre and Film, rounds out this esteemed assemblage of exceptional talent.
Tickets to "Every Man Jack" may be purchased by visiting Sonoma City Opera online at www.sonomacityopera.org or by phone 877-778-3378.
