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Set in Venice Beach, The Face tells a deeply compelling story about the price of fame, desire and creativity. The central character, a poet named Raphael, struggles with the recent loss of his lover/muse while juggling the demands of a movie being made about his life and his increasing notoriety. The narrative is both passionate and raw in its candor, offering an insightful view of the human condition.

The artistic team for the production includes the innovative Parisian stage director/filmmaker Paul Desveaux and renowned European choreographer Yano Iatrides. An exceptional international cast includes acclaimed British tenor Daniel Norman as Raphael; American lyric baritone Thomas Meglioranza as the movie producer, Memphis; American mezzo-soprano Janna Baty as the director, Infanta; and young Australian soprano Jane Sheldon as the actress, Cybele.

The event will include an introduction by composer Donald Crockett, followed by a semi-staged performance of selected scenes accompanied by the USC Thornton Contemporary Music Ensemble. Short readings from the original novella in verse by eminent poet and USC professor David St. John will be interspersed between scenes. A Q&A with members of the creative team and the cast will follow.

Related Events

From Poem to Stage: The Face is a multi-event residency that will offer a rare behind-the-scenes look into the process of transforming an idea (in this case a novella in verse) into a 21st century multidisciplinary chamber opera. Open rehearsals and discussions will be held from April 23 through 26. Please check back for a detailed schedule of events.

Organized by the USC Thornton School of Music