Rotary Clubs and Connecticut Lyric Opera Present: Amistad Opera

Rotary District 7980 (Southern CT), local Rotary clubs, and Connecticut Lyric Opera (CLO) are thrilled to announce Opus for Peace, a special event series promoting peace, healing, and reconciliation through the arts, being launched with an abridged and narrated performance of Anthony Davis's powerful opera Amistad.

This performance is generously sponsored by the local Rotary clubs – Mystic, Westport, Westport Sunrise – and District 7980, reflecting their commitment to promoting peace-building and conflict transformation through the arts.

Opus for Peace Initiative

Opus for Peace is a District 7980 initiative designed to promote peace-building around the world, in our communities, and within ourselves through the arts. Each Rotary club within the district is encouraged to create at least one peace-related project during the Rotary year. The series will feature a variety of events, with the abridged and narrated performance of Amistad serving as the initial musical event.

Anthony Davis’s Opera Amistad

Amistad recounts the powerful story of the 1839 slave ship rebellion, a pivotal moment in the fight for freedom and justice and a seminal moment in Connecticut’s history. This opera is not only a masterpiece of contemporary composition but also a beacon for social and racial justice, highlighting themes that resonate deeply in today's society. Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Anthony Davis's composition skillfully intertwines historical narrative with emotional depth, making Amistad a compelling and relevant work for modern audiences.

These initial performances are part of a larger series throughout the year all across southern Connecticut, culminating in a full production of Amistad to be performed across the state in May 2025.

This Amistad production is a collaboration with Harlem Opera Theater and Discovering Amistad.

About Rotary International and District 7980

Rotary International is a global network of 1.2 million members who believe in a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change. District 7980 encompasses the Rotary clubs in Southern Connecticut, dedicated to service above self, fostering peace, and improving communities. The Opus for Peace initiative is a testament to their commitment to promoting peace through artistic and community engagement.

About Rotary Clubs of Mystic, Westport, and Westport Sunrise

"Service Above Self" to save and change lives. Rotary members commit to mentor young people, help people with special needs, and improve people's quality of life in our communities and in the world.

About Connecticut Lyric Opera

Connecticut Lyric Opera is the state's premier opera company, dedicated to bringing high-quality professional performances to a broad and diverse audience. With a history of innovative programming and dynamic productions, CLO aims to demystify opera and make it accessible to all. For more information, please visit www.ctlyricopera.org.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

The Westport Library, 20 Jesup Road, Westport, United States