Canada opera goes black on white

Aportia Chryptych opens tomorrow in Toronto.

Might it have something to do with the COC general director’s abrupt departure?

Here’s the blurb.

Nova Scotian contralto Portia White was the first Black Canadian concert performer to achieve international fame in the mid-20th century, touring North America and performing in Europe while being hailed as the best classical voice of her generation. Yet despite such artistic accomplishments, her story has been erased from Canadians’ collective memory.

Working against this history, Aportia Chryptych is a bold, new Black opera that sets out to reclaim Portia White’s story, evoking memories of the past as a form of political resistance. Spoken word, rap, folk songs, hip-hop, R&B, and classic opera repertoire collide in an explosive score that seeks to break down musical silos and unite artistic and cultural communities.

In celebration of Portia White, opening night audiences are encouraged to wear white, honouring the Canadian artist’s name, life, and incredible legacy.

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