Program
- John ADAMS Girls of the Golden West
Artists
About this Performance
John Adams’ powerful new opera, Girls of the Golden West, is a rejection of the whitewashed romantic view of California in the early days of the Gold Rush. Director Peter Sellars drew from historical texts when he created the libretto, particularly from the memoirs of a woman who called herself Dame Shirley. As Sellars has said, “These true stories of the Forty-Niners are overwhelming in their heroism, passion, and cruelty, telling tales of racial conflicts, colorful and humorous exploits, political strife and struggles to build new life.” Responding to these incidents, Adams’ propulsive music captures all the conflicting emotions with his characteristic insight. “There should be no doubt that Girls of the Golden West is the most powerful opera of the moment.” – Los Angeles Times
The recording of this concert is generously supported by the Lenore S. and Bernard A. Greenberg Fund.
This performance is generously supported by the Frank Gehry Fund for Creativity.
See other concerts in this seriesPrograms, artists, dates, prices, and availability subject to change.
Enhance Your Experience
Drinks in The Garden
Event starts at 6:30PM
Set the tone for your night with Drinks in The Garden. Starting at 6:30pm, you can enjoy music and your first drink on us in the lush and leafy ambiance of Walt Disney Concert Hall’s Blue Ribbon Garden.
Subject to cancellation due to weather conditions.