Opera is not typically associated with smartphones, short attention spans or jokes that land like stand-up comedy punchlines. But Gonzo Opera’s Cellular World is intentionally pushing against those expectations, bringing a satirical, contemporary take on the art form to FUSION theatre from Feb. 6–8.
“That’s the idea of Gonzo Opera, that it’s contemporary subjects that everybody can relate to,” says composer Daniel Steven Crafts.
Cellular World is an hour-long opera written by librettist Janice Leber with music by Crafts, and it centers on four characters navigating modern life with limited attention spans and unlimited data plans. Crafts describes the piece as “a wonderful satire,” one that pokes fun at society’s obsessive relationship with cell phones while remaining grounded in traditional operatic technique.
Despite its comedic tone, Crafts is quick to emphasize that Gonzo Opera is not parody or musical theater. “Opera doesn’t have to be what people normally think it is, something really heavy and serious and all of that,” says Crafts. “Opera can be great fun. And these are wonderful singers who can project comedy as well.”
That philosophy is central to the company’s mission. “We want to demonstrate that opera doesn’t have to be the elitist art form that it has become in recent times. This is ‘opera for everybody,’” says Crafts.
The cast features classically trained vocalists Hannah Stephens, Esther Moses, Curtis Storm and Thomas Munro, accompanied by Molly Hill on flute, Megan Snow on clarinet and Scott Jacobsen on keyboard. All performances are sung in English, a choice Crafts says helps make the work more accessible.
“If you love opera or hate opera, it really doesn’t matter, you’re going to have a good time,” says Crafts.
Crafts believes Cellular World is particularly well suited for audiences who may feel intimidated or disconnected from traditional opera. “This is perfect if you’re only a little bit into opera and you’re not sure about it,” says Crafts. “You’ll laugh like crazy, because there’s jokes all the way through.”
Crafts also sees Gonzo Opera as part of a broader effort to revitalize the genre. “Traditional opera is almost a dying art form,” says Crafts. “There haven’t been any new ones that have gotten into standard repertory in about half a century. So this is a new direction, and it’s really been needed for a long time.”
The production process reflects that balance between classical structure and modern storytelling.
Performances will take place at FUSION theatre, a venue more commonly associated with plays than opera. “It’s mostly for plays,” says Crafts, “but we have a good relationship with the people who run it, and so it’s a really good venue for us.”
Ultimately, Crafts hopes audiences walk away wanting more. “I hope people will really love it and come back and see the next one,” says Crafts.
Cellular World runs Friday, Feb. 6 at 7 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 7–8 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $20, with $10 student tickets available. More information can be found at fusionnm.org.
Gonzo Opera presents Cellular World
Feb. 6, 7:30 p.m.
Feb 7 & Feb. 8, 2 p.m.
FUSION Theatre
700 1st Street NW.
Tickets: $20 General Admission and $10 Student