Reviving an Artform: The World Premiere of The Unknowable: An Operatic Ballet in Two Acts at Lowell House Opera Paves the Way for Opera Accessibility

Reinventing the opéra-ballet first popularized during the Baroque era, Lowell House Opera proudly unveils The Unknowable: An Operatic Ballet in Two Acts with music and libretto by Benjamin T. Rossen, featuring music by Hector Berlioz and Gustav Mahler, at Sanders Theater on February 10th and 11th, 2024. This production marks a convergence of 18th-century opéra-ballet with contemporary narrative flair, delivering an unparalleled experience.

Choreographer and former ballerina at the Oregon Ballet Theatre, Emily Parker, praises The Unknowable, declaring, "It takes what we love about opera and ballet—bravura singing and a highly refined movement aesthetic—and makes it... real."

THE UNKNOWABLE: A Fusion of Opera and Ballet for All

Breaking away from historical conventions, The Unknowable seeks to redefine the boundaries of opera and ballet, inviting a broader audience into the world of performing arts. Rossen's innovative approach seamlessly integrates dancers and vocalists, creating a compelling narrative that transcends traditional barriers. This groundbreaking show aims to make opera accessible.

“Throughout history, ballet in opera has been treated as episodic and disjunct from the larger narrative – as a brief visual delight. The form of ‘operatic ballet’ found in The Unknowable interweaves dancers and vocalists like never before. This story explores how artists can communicate and understand one another not only with words, but also with kinesics and haptics.” states Benjamin T. Rossen, composer and librettist of The Unknowable.

BRINGING MAHLER AND BERLIOZ CENTER STAGE

Rossen explains “The Unknowable centers around the listening experience of ‘Les nuits d’été’ by Hector Berlioz and ‘Lieder eines fahrenden Gesellen’ by Gustav Mahler. These song cycles were carefully chosen for their rich soundworlds and allegories to embody the characters’ personal journeys and burgeoning curiosity.”

A RELATABLE, RELEVANT, 21ST CENTURY OPERA

Parker emphasizes the universal appeal of The Unknowable, stating, "The story revolves around a situation to which we can all relate. We have all been faced with a tough decision, and we have all felt the anxiety and frustration that comes when we look inward for direction and struggle to find a clear or satisfying answer. I think we can all see ourselves in The Unknowable."

ABOUT Lowell House Opera, Paving the Way for Opera Accessibility

Founded in 1938, Lowell House Opera, the oldest professional opera company in New England, is dedicated to preserving opera's timeless beauty while actively working to make it more accessible for a new generation. Putting on shows ranging from Harvard graduate Benjamin Wenzelberg’s NIGHTTOWN, to classics by Puccini, Mozart, and Purcell, the Lowell House Opera aims to honor the tradition of opera while also creating space for young composers to explore and grow. By featuring Boston's premier professional operatic vocalists alongside budding collegiate performers, Lowell House Opera creates an inclusive space that welcomes diverse audiences to experience opera.