“Opera and Social Justice: How can opera give voice to a new historical narrative?” is a conversation about an imagined future — one in which many of the conventions, practices and prejudices inherent in the field of opera led to a transformation of the genre.

So many today are rightfully driven to create a more equitable and just society, and changes in the landscape of the performing arts are no different. Who is welcome on the operatic stage, and in the audience? Whose stories can and should be told? Can this art form, which has so many passionate devotees, transform itself and reflect the world we long for?

Organized by the Arts and Community Engagement initiative in the UC San Diego Division of Arts and Humanities, the panelists include some of the most renowned composers, librettists, lyricists and activists in the contemporary music scene. All have been instrumental in bringing boundary-breaking works into the repertoire.

With discussion moderated by Los Angeles Times classical music critic Mark Swed, this 90-minute lively conversation will start to answer these questions and more, followed by an audience Q&A that is sure to be a thought-provoking envisioning of the future of opera.

Guest speakers:

• John Adams, composer
• Anthony Davis, composer and UC San Diego professor
• Thulani Davis, poet and librettist
• Michael Korie, Librettist and lyricist
• Daniel Bernard Roumain, composer and activist

Moderated by Mark Swed, Los Angeles Times classical music critic

Arts and Community Engagement seeks to place the arts at the center of essential conversation, sparking broader cultural dialogue and civic engagement. Professor of Music Susan Narucki is the inaugural director.

By registering, you agree to receive future correspondence from Arts and Community Engagement. Alternately, you can watch live at: https://youtu.be/x77_XlU49bc