Reviving an Artform: The World Premiere of The Unknowable: An Operatic Ballet in Two Acts at Lowell House Opera

The world premiere of The Unknowable: An Operatic Ballet in Two Acts, with music and libretto by Benjamin T. Rossen, featuring music by Hector Berlioz and Gustav Mahler, will occur February 10th and 11th in Sanders Theater at Harvard University.

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

THE UNKNOWABLE: A Fusion of Opera and Ballet
“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. Empathy, frustration, compassion, and inquisitiveness mysteriously blossom in this multi-sensorial experience.” reveals Rossen.

The Unknowable follows a young woman and her path to sincere curiosity – both intellectual and emotional – in the face of a demoralizing reality.

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 asserts that "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, the Oldest Professional Opera Company in New England

Founded in 1938, the Lowell House Opera has continually adapted to changing times while preserving opera’s timeless beauty. Lowell House Opera features Boston's premier professional operatic vocalists alongside budding collegiate performers.