“Porgy and Bess,” George Gershwin’s gorgeous and heartbreaking American opera, got its start on Broadway in 1935.
Make no mistake, though — despite being born in the land of musical theater, “Porgy and Bess” is classic opera and has become one of the most enduring and well-loved in the canon. It is arguably the most famous American opera.
Some of the most popular scores in the American songbook come from “Porgy and Bess,” including, “Summertime,” “I’ve Got Plenty O’ Nuttin’,” and “I Loves You, Porgy.”
While “Porgy and Bess” has played in Seattle twice before, this is the first time Seattle Opera has mounted a local production of the tale of Catfish Row and the struggle of American immigrants.
The cast and crew features several “Porgy and Bess” living legends, including conductor John DeMain, whose 1976 production paved the way for “Porgy” to become what it is today.
True to Gershwin’s wishes, the on-stage cast is all black. Seattle Opera put together a special chorus that highlights local singers, including Everett tenor Kevin Douglass.
Douglass, 36, learned of the opportunity through his work at the 5th Avenue Theatre in Seattle and has been rehearsing five days a week since mid-June.
For him, the experience has exceeded expectations.
“People will take away a sense of pride in seeing this show, not only for its historical value, but hearing and seeing a piece of American theater,” he said. “I am truly honored to be part of such a tremendously talented cast.”
Seattle author, actor and musician John Lowrie plays a banjo solo — the five-stringed instrument’s only appearance in the classical opera repertoire — during Porgy’s famous aria, “I’ve Got Plenty O’ Nuttin’.”
“It’s a great joy,” Lowrie said. “Gershwin is like bathing in maple syrup. It’s just wonderful.”
Gordon Hawkins and Lisa Daltirus return to the Seattle stage in the title roles, as does Mary Elizabeth Williams as Serena.
Making Seattle Opera debuts are Michael Redding as Crown, Jermaine Smith as Sportin’ Life and Angel Blue as Clara.
The sets originally are from a production by the New York Harlem Theater, but Seattle Opera’s props crew built the scene for Kittiwah Island.
Lighting director Duane Schuler gets to show off the company’s computerized wizardry during the hurricane scene.
Unlike the rest of the opera season in Seattle, “Porgy and Bess” features only one principal cast. (Scheduling in the fall and winter requires a so-called gold and silver cast who sing alternate nights.)
“Porgy and Bess” opens Saturday and runs for seven more performances, including one matinee at McCaw Hall, 321 Mercer St., Seattle, through Aug. 20.
Tickets cost $25 to $241 at www.seattleopera.org or 800-426-1619.
Jackson Holtz: 425-339-3447; jholtz@heraldnet.com.
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