Frederick Douglass Opera Gets Overdue New England Premiere, Jun 20

The Boston Modern Orchestra Project (BMOP), in partnership with “one of the nation’s most intriguing opera companies (The New York Times),” Odyssey Opera, presents the New England premiere of Frederick Douglass at New England Conservatory’s Jordan Hall on Friday, June 20, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. This opera, composed in three acts by prominent 20th-century Black composer Ulysses Kay, features a libretto by Donald Dorr and centers on a fictionalized account of the final year of the renowned Black abolitionist and statesman. Conducted by Gil Rose, this concert version showcases the full BMOP orchestra along with several of today’s leading vocalists, including bassist Kenneth Kellogg (Detroit Opera, Seattle Opera) in the lead role of Douglass.

Ticketing + Program Information:

Friday, June 20, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. ET

New England Conservatory’s Jordan Hall, 30 Gainsborough Street, Boston, MA

Tickets: General $15+. Students $10. Reservations strongly encouraged. To reserve, visit BMOP.org or call 718.324.0396.

Performers: Kenneth Kellogg/Frederick Douglass – bass

Melody Moore/Helen Douglass – soprano

Leroy Davis/Howard Douglass – baritone

John Allen Nelson/Norton – baritone

Omar Najmi/Demler – tenor

Neal Ferreira/Aubrey – tenor

Matthew Arnold/Busby - tenor

Odyssey Opera chorus

Boston Modern Orchestra Project (BMOP)

Gil Rose, conductor