In 2023, Long Beach Opera delivered a groundbreaking performance of THE ROMANCE OF THE ROSE, a genre-defying masterpiece composed by Kate Soper and directed by James Darrah. This operatic adventure embarked on a quest to explore the complexities of human folly, artfully blending comedy and fantastical elements.

The production unfolded as a narrative of epic proportions, captivating audiences with its inventive storytelling. Pulitzer Prize finalist Kate Soper, known for her unique compositional voice, crafted a musical journey that defied convention. Her composition featured a mesmerizing blend of modernistic dissonance, madrigalistic elegance, auto-tuned didacticism, and lush Romanticism, pushing the boundaries of traditional opera.

The talented cast, led by Tony Award nominee Lucas Steele as The Dreamer, delivered exceptional performances that resonated with the audience. Laurel Irene, Anna Schubert, Tiffany Townsend, and Tivoli Treloar, among others, breathed life into the allegorical characters of Shame, Lady Reason, Idleness, and The Lover. Their artistry illuminated the dreamlike world of the narrative, inviting viewers to contemplate the beauty and absurdity of human existence.

THE ROMANCE OF THE ROSE defied categorization, leaving its viewers dazed and intrigued. It delved into themes of love, morality, and the human condition, all while infusing a sense of humor that left audiences questioning where comedy ended and meaning began. This operatic marvel embraced abstraction and challenged narrative conventions, offering a refreshing perspective on the art form.

In the historic Warner Grand Theater, this production enchanted, charmed, and even terrified its audience, promising an unforgettable journey into the realm of artistic exploration. Kate Soper's fearless approach to composition, coupled with James Darrah's visionary direction, ensured that THE ROMANCE OF THE ROSE would be remembered as a daring and original theatrical experience.