WHEN:
June 20, 2025
WHERE:
New England Conservatory’s Jordan Hall
30 Gainsborough Street
Boston, MA
A spokesperson describes the event as follows:
“...This opera, composed in three acts by prominent 20th-century Black composer Ulysses Kay, features a libretto by Donald Dorr and centers on a fictionalized account of the final year of the renowned Black abolitionist and statesman. Conducted by Gil Rose, this concert version showcases the full BMOP orchestra along with several of today’s leading vocalists, including bassist Kenneth Kellogg (Detroit Opera, Seattle Opera) in the lead role of Douglass.
Though Kay considered the work his magnum opus, Frederick Douglass has not been performed in full since its premiere in 1991..."
Performers:
Kenneth Kellogg/Frederick Douglass – bass
Melody Moore/Helen Douglass – soprano
Leroy Davis/Howard Douglass – baritone
John Allen Nelson/Norton – baritone
Omar Najmi/Demler – tenor
Neal Ferreira/Aubrey – tenor
Matthew Arnold/Busby - tenor
Odyssey Opera chorus
Boston Modern Orchestra Project (BMOP)
Gil Rose, conductor
