Elmer Gantry: A New American Opera

My name is Jenny Rivera and I'll be singing Sister Sharon Falconer in both Nashville and Montclair. This is the first time I've ever written a blog of any kind, but I feel like if Sharon were around, or Amy Semple, the character on which Sharon was based, she would be a master of the blogosphere since she had pretty much conquered the media as it existed at that time. I am excited to be a part of this project for so many reasons.....

After relentless verbal abuse and repeated threats of physical violence from both Bob and Herschel, I figured now was as good a time as any to step up. I'm Keith Phares and will be singing the title role of Elmer Gantry for the premiere in Nashville. Thanks to my long-time nemesis, Jenny Rivera (Sharon Falconer) I was introduced to this project last winter and I couldn't be more excited that it's finally getting off the ground. Aside from all of the gorgeous and distinctly "American" music and text,...

On the eve of the World Premiere performance of Elmer Gantry, I thought I'd greet you all. Like Jennifer Rivera, I haven't ever written or kept a blog either so this is a new experience for me. It's an interesting and important tool for you to read more about the opera and for us to share ideas of our process in the creation of this wonderful, moving opera. I have taken a few photos during our sitzprobe that I've posted here.

(l. to r.)Director John Hoomes, Librettist Herschel Garfein and Composer Robert Aldridge at the sitzprobe for Elmer Gantry.

Librettist Herschel Garfein and Composer Robert Aldridge at the sitzprobe for Elmer Gantry.