Gershwin's Porgy and Bess is a folk opera that continues to cast an indelible impression on black culture and the opera world. In this opera talk, Tanisha will explore the history behind the opera and play and perform memorable selections from legendary productions. The audience will also discuss the poignant question: Is Porgy and Bess truly a black opera?

Porgy and Bess, dramatic folk opera in three acts by George Gershwin. Its English libretto was written by DuBose Heyward (with lyrics by Heyward and Ira Gershwin), based on Heyward’s novel Porgy (1925). The opera—which premiered at the Alvin Theatre in New York City on October 10, 1935—is considered to be the first great American opera. It contains many beloved musical numbers, including the arias “Summertime” and “I Got Plenty o’ Nuttin’.” READ MORE ON BRITTANICA

SETTING

As Sophia from the Golden Girls says “Picture it” Porgy and Bess is set in Catfish Row, a small town on the dock near Charleston, circa 1930.

ACT 1: Scene 1: Catfish Row, a summer evening

           Scene 2: Serena's Room, the following night                     

ACT 2: Scene 1: Catfish Row, a month later, in the morning

            Scene 2: Kittiwah Island, that evening

            Scene 3: Catfish Row, a week later, just before dawn

            Scene 4: Serena's Room, dawn of the next day

ACT 3: Scene 1: Catfish Row, the next night

            Scene 2: Catfish Row, the next afternoon

            Scene 3: Catfish Row, a week later

OPERA-ALIKES

If you like Porgy and Bess then look into other offerings that include opera and black culture including Leontyne Price who performed Bess early in her opera career.