Opus

by Michael Hollinger, Jere Burns (Reading), Kevin Chamberlin (Reading)

In Michael Hollinger's look at the discordant backstage world of classical music, The Lazara Quartet has just fired one of its members, and his replacement is wary of the group's reputation for personal, violent quarrels. And as they prepare for a command performance at the White House, they're haunted by their former colleague's sudden disappearance.

This recording also includes an interview with playwright Michael Hollinger as well as an interview with arts consultant Drew McManus.

An L.A. Theatre Works full-cast performance featuring:
Jonathan Adams as Dorian
Jere Burns as Elliot
Kevin Chamberlin as Carl
Steven Culp as Alan
Jon Matthews as Nigel, Voice and President
Liza Weil as Grace

Directed by Brendon Fox. Recorded by L.A. Theatre Works before a live audience at the James Bridges Theater, UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television in May 2012.

Genres: Plays, Drama

Audio CD

First published January 1, 2009

Reviews

[Joyce · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely language well-performed and an intriguing exploration of the dynamics of a string quartet, not to mention gorgeous classical music at the beginning, the end, and throughout. However, I think audio only for a play, especially a play one is unfamiliar with is tricky, as we don't have the visual cues to alert us to scene changes--or in this case flashbacks. A play in audio requires much more from the listener. Still it's a lovely play with smart dialog and insights into music and people.

[Elizabeth Paige · Rating 5 out of 5]

rhythmic.