Francesca Zambello and Tim O’Leary, “Spotlight on the Opera Blue”

Blue, a new opera by Jeanine Tesori and Tazewell Thompson that had its premiere at The Glimmerglass Festival last summer, centers on the hopes and fears of a young Black couple as they raise a son in 21st-century America. Reflective of a tragically familiar headline, the story follows the father — a police officer — and the mother, as they navigate the killing of their son by law enforcement with support from their community. The opera was set for subsequent performances at Washington National Opera, Lyric Opera of Chicago and Lincoln Center’s Mostly Mozart Festival, before cancellations were announced due to the ongoing pandemic.

Glimmerglass Festival Artistic Director Francesca Zambello speaks with Washington National Opera General Director Timothy O’Leary about the process of bringing Blue from commission, to its world premiere, to ultimately receiving the Music Critics Association of North America’s award for Best New Opera. They will be joined by renowned baritone and featured Blue performer, Gordon Hawkins, and introduced by Betsy Cohen, Islesboro summer resident, opera lover and financial sponsor of Blue.