In just under three weeks, I’ll have the pleasure of premiering my short comic opera, On Our Way, in Englewood, Colorado with the beautiful people at Opera On Tap Colorado.
The story is about two guys—one an aspiring broadway singer, the other an overworked investment banker—who face challenges that get in the way of attaining the sort of life they want to lead. When they hit rock bottom, they end up on a subway train together. What begins as a one-sided flirtatious encounter leads to a meaningful connection as they encourage each other not to give up hope and that a better future is within their grasp.
The story, by Alan Olejniczak, was instantly relatable to me, as, after college, I felt like I could not succeed as a composer. The pressure of comparing myself to composers in the pantheon and feeling like, if I didn’t measure up to their mythical status, then I couldn’t be a composer, caused me to run from what I long knew I wanted to be. It took a handful of years and distance from all the negative thoughts and emotions before it struck me: “Oh right, I love music. Why am I not doing it?”
If you’ve ever felt defeated and disillusioned by life, then this opera is for you. It offers a glimmer of hope into a future where you—yes you—can be on your way to achieving your dreams, despite any obstacles along the way.
The opera is in three scenes and will be interspersed with other operatic arias in the repertoire. There will be four amazing singers, two of which are double cast:
Chloe Scull playing Chef/Kayla and also stage directing.
Jerome Síbulo playing Tommy.
Ben Boskoff playing Eli.
Chad Reagan playing Karl/Boss.
Teresa Crane is music directing and rehearsal pianist.
I will be playing piano for the performance.
Plus, there will be beer and pizza in a relaxed atmosphere where you’re not forced into a cramped seat for hours on end.
For a preview, you can listen to my audio demo of the third scene here. I’m also posting snippets on my Instagram.
Hope to see you there!
Tickets (Eventbrite)
Nathan Wasner - Composer & Pianist 