CALM ON CATFISH ROW
Porgy and Bess

Long considered daring and controversial, the Gershwin duo's classically American "Porgy and Bess" has delighted audiences since its debut in 1935, though it was only relatively recently that the work was even considered a legitimate opera. Its creative musical references to American jazz, blues and folk music of the time showcased the innovation and talent of composer George Gershwin, and the popularity of songs such as "Summertime" have permeated into pop music culture today.

Now performed widely throughout the world, "Porgy and Bess" comes to the LA Opera starting May 4. A chronicle of the life and struggles of an African-American community on the fictitious Catfish Row of South Carolina, this production by the Washington National Opera features such timeless songs as "Bess, You Is My Woman Now" and "It Ain't Necessarily So." The opera stars Kevin Short and Alfred Walker as Porgy and Morenike Fadayomi and Indira Mahajan as Bess.

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