Robert Orth

Based on a story by Franz Kafka, this Philip Glass opera is set at the turn of the 20th century on a remote island where a high-ranking visitor arrives to witness the use of a strange machine in the execution of a prisoner. It is a parable for the consequences of the abuse of power and corruption.

Orson Welles' heart has just stopped. We enter his mind in this moment, on the threshold between life and death. In the bardo Orson's thoughts unspool as a stream of consciousness that loops back on itself, like a mobius strip.

A one-act, full-evening work that tells the story of Simon Powers, a successful and powerful businessman and inventor, reaching the end of his life and facing the question of his legacy. He is now conducting his final experiment, passing from one form of existence to another in an effort to project himself into the future. Simon Powers is himself now a System. His family, friends, and associates must decide what this means, whether or not he is actually alive, how it affects them, and whether to follow.

Candide falls in love with the beautiful but materialistic Cunegonde. Her barron father doesn't approve of the affair so Candide wanders, meeting all the misfortunes along the way.

The classic opera is brought to life by Beverly Sills.