Hailed as the first American opera, The Gershwins' Porgy and Bess has garnered critical acclaim and inspired passionate reactions since its premiere. Featuring some of the most beautiful and beloved songs ever written, Porgy and Bess shines a light on a chapter from our past as culturally challenging as its songs and characters are universally cherished. Our production will be offered in collaboration with and in honor of Iowa’s own international opera star Simon Estes on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of his historic Metropolitan Opera debut. He will serve as Producing Advisor and sing the role of Lawyer Frazier for this long-anticipated Iowa premiere.