Program
Artists
About this Performance
John Adams’ powerful opera, Girls of the Golden West, is a rejection of the whitewashed romantic view of California in the early days of the Gold Rush. Director Peter Sellars drew from historical texts when he created the libretto, particularly from the memoirs of a woman who called herself Dame Shirley. As Sellars has said, “These true stories of the Forty-Niners are overwhelming in their heroism, passion, and cruelty, telling tales of racial conflicts, colorful and humorous exploits, political strife and struggles to build new life.” Responding to these incidents, Adams’ propulsive music captures all the conflicting emotions with his characteristic insight. “There should be no doubt that Girls of the Golden West is the most powerful opera of the moment.” – Los Angeles Times
This performance is generously supported by the Frank Gehry Fund for Creativity and the Lenore S. and Bernard A. Greenberg Fund.
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Enhance Your Experience
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Drinks in the Garden
Event starts at 6:30PM
Set the tone for your night with Drinks in The Garden. Starting at 6:30pm, you can enjoy a tequila tasting provided by Tequila Tesoro Azteca in the lush and leafy ambiance of Walt Disney Concert Hall’s Blue Ribbon Garden.
Subject to cancellation due to weather conditions. -
Upbeat Live with Sarah Cahill
Event starts at 7:00PM
Before the concert, some of the sharpest musical minds around–including members of the LA Phil–guide you through the evening’s music, complete with a Q&A session for any lingering questions. This free event is held in BP Hall, accessible after your ticket is scanned.
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Land of Gold Documentary Film Screening at REDCAT • SAT / JAN 28
Event starts at 8:30PM
Presented in conjunction with the Girls of the Golden West performances, the documentary film Land of Gold takes audiences into the rehearsal rooms and behind the scenes of the opera’s premiere production in San Francisco in 2017. The screening will be followed by a conversation with composer John Adams and director Jon Else.