BROTHER BROTHER

This program featured a full production of EiO co-founder Aaron Siegel’s evening length opera, Brother Brother directed by Mallory Catlett, with designs by Mimi Lien and performances by Mantra Percussion and Cadillac Moon Ensemble under the musical direction of David Bloom. This 90-minute opera, which had been in development with Experiments in Opera for two seasons, explores the relationship between Orville and Wilbur Wright following their first flights in 1903.  This fascinating story of family drama, business struggles and legal fights is layered over a secondary story detailing the challenges of contemporary brotherhood and the complexities of growing up with an unusual idea of brotherly intimacy.  Aaron Siegel drew on his own experiences as a twin while writing the libretto that provides both sets of brothers a range of intimate language to express their wonder in the world and in each other.  The music for Brother Brother draws on Siegel’s wide range of experiences with percussive minimalism, early music, American shape-note singing, ambient electronic music and improvised jazz.  Brother Brother is a timely look at the personal side of innovation and entrepreneurial optimism in America.

Prior to each Brother Brother performance, Experiments in Opera shared four ‘Opera Trailers,’  90-second videos that offer a sneak peek at new opera ideas and characters.  Featured artists included Jason Cady, Dave Ruder, Matthew Welch and the partnership of Daniel Kushner, Noelle Evans and Jascha Narveson.