two Rarely performed powerful operas

As part of its Recovered Voices project, Los Angeles Opera presents two stunning yet overlooked one-act operas as part of its 2023/24 season. Starting with William Grant Still's stunning Jim Crow era set highway 1, USA. Composed in the 40s but only receiving its premiere in 1963, it details the struggles of an ordinary couple seeking a better life. Set to a jazz-infused score, it showcases Still's talents, cementing his name as ' The Dean of African-American Composers'.

Alongside, Alexander Zemilisky's interpretation of Oscar Wilds 'The Birthday of the Infanta' explores the sadness of un-requited love, a rare gem from a career stopped by the Nazi regime.