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.

APORTIA CHRYPTYCH: A BLACK OPERA FOR PORTIA WHITE

HAUI x Sean Mayes

WORLD PREMIERE

JUNE 14, 15, AND 16, 2024

Canadian Opera Company Theatre

227 Front St. E., Toronto, Ontario

Sung in English, Creole, and Joual

CREATIVE TEAM:

Composer: Sean Mayes with HAUI

Director and Librettist: HAUI

Assistant Director: Sheree Spencer

Dramaturg: Neema Bickersteth

Conductor: Sean Mayes

Set & Projection Design: Laura Warren

Lighting Design: Bonnie Beecher

Costume Design: Diseiye Thompson

Sound Design: Wayne Hawthorne

Stage Manager: Kat Chin

Assistant Stage Manager: Jessica Severin

Choreography & Intimacy Director: Aria Evans

Cast:

Portia Body: Neema Bickersteth

Portia Spirit: Adrienne Danrich

Portia Soul: SATE

Jimmy: Henos Girma

For tickets visit: www.coc.ca.

Photo: Portia White. © 1946 Yousuf Karsh.