Chicago Fringe Opera

Waking the Witch

September 25, 2026 - September 27, 2026

Description

When people in power believe in conspiracy theories, how do we respond?

Waking the Witch is a one-act (~75 min.), immersive chamber opera for solo countertenor, mezzo-soprano, or contralto and Pierrot ensemble that explores human vulnerability to absurd beliefs as well as the danger of mixing authority and religion with black-and-white thinking, fear of those with less power, and conspiracy theories. The audience assumes the role of an accused witch, physically surrounded with a single-minded interrogator and animal familiars of questionable reality (played by the treble instruments of the Pierrot ensemble). The libretto is derived from the words of both historical witchfinders and modern-day leaders and movements with eerily similar messaging. Listeners must consider how we might navigate the seemingly impossible logic of power lost in moral panic, while remembering the dangerous reality that these things did, and in many ways still do, happen.

Ear Taxi Festival: Excerpts from "Here Be Sirens"

October 17, 2025

Info / Tickets

Description

The Ear Taxi Festival 2025, themed “The Composer’s Voice,” is a landmark event showcasing contemporary concert music across Chicagoland.

This year’s festival will highlight over 500 artists in over 50 hours of programming, including large-scale Anchor Performances, Composer Showcases, Taxi Concerts, and Accent Concerts.

Chicago Fringe Opera’s Anchor Performance features three opera excerpts:

Here Be Sirens (Kate Soper) | On My Mind (Jasmine Barnes) | No One’s Child (Regina Baiocchi)

Kehrein Center

Hindsight: a true crime opera by Felix Jarrar and Bea Goodwin

November 01, 2024

Info / Tickets

Description

Uncover the chilling tale of one of America's earliest and most infamous murder cases in Hindsight, a gripping new contemporary opera by composer Felix Jarrar and librettist Bea Goodwin. Set in 1919 Hyde Park, Hindsight dives deep into the dark history of Chicago, exploring the horrifying actions of Leopold and Loeb—two men who believed themselves above the law. This haunting story of madness, murder, and unchecked white supremacy takes you into the minds of these notorious killers, revealing the chilling depths of human evil.