Porgy and Bess by George Gershwin, DuBose and Dorothy Heyward and Ira Gershwin

Considered by many to be America’s greatest opera, Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess, a stirring 1935 work based on librettist DuBose Heyward’s novel about a disabled beggar in a poor African American section of Charleston, brought forth such classic songs as “Summertime,” “It Ain’t Necessarily So,” “I Loves You,” “Porgy and Bess,” and “You Is My Woman Now.” This captivating concert version features highlights led by Joel Revzen. The outstanding Festival Orchestra NAPA is joined by two commanding young singers: dramatic baritone Lester Lynch, celebrated for his charismatic portrayals and commanding voice; and soprano Angel Blue, a protégé of Plácido Domingo recognized for her beautiful timbre. The artists are no strangers to Porgy and Bess: Lynch recently sang the role of Crown at Opéra de Montréal and with the Berlin Philharmonic, and Blue will star as Bess in an upcoming production at the Metropolitan Opera.

Festival Orchestra NAPA's appearance is made possible through a generous gift from Tatiana and Gerret Copeland, proprietors of Bouchaine Vineyards
Concert is part of the Jan Shrem and Maria Manetti Shrem Vocal Arts Series