“Our newest initiative brings fresh operatic works to the Maryland Opera stage. The evening features a double bill of new works by composers with a connection to our performing community in the greater Baltimore area as well as a pre-show introduction to these stories and a post-show Q&A with the creative team. We are thrilled to work with these talented creators to bring something brand new to our stage.”  – Maryland Opera

Link to tickets for Double Bill Oshun and Kandake

Conductor: Anoa Green

Rehearsal/Performance Pianist: James Harp

Stage Directors: Jarrod Lee and Shawna Williams (and choreographer)

Projection Designer: Chloe McNeill

Costume Designer: Alia Davis Brown

Oshun

Composer: B.E. Boykin

Librettist: Jarrod Lee

Commissioned by the Washington National Opera

Premiered: 2023

Cast:

Oshun (soprano): Jouelle Roberson

Shango (baritone): Daniel J. Smith

Esu (tenor): Anthony Ballard

Olodumare (bass): Christian Simmons

Kandake

Composer: Timothy Amukele

Librettist: Jarrod Lee

Commissioned by Opera Theater of St. Louis

Premiered: 2025

Cast:

Kandake Amanirenas (mezzo): Taylor Boykins

Prince Akinidad (tenor): Anthony Ballard

Oracles 1 and 2 (soprano and mezzo): Sierra Leslie and Abjini Chattopadhyay

Kushite 1 and 2 (tenor and bass): Darius Sanders and Christian Simmons

Offstage Artists:

Nazarene Maloney (soprano), Laquavia Alston (mezzo), Henry Hubbard (tenor), Darius Jackson (bass)

Artwork by Maryland Opera