The Cincinnati Opera’s summer festival continues with the world premiere of the Afrofuturistic opera Lalovavi by Kevin Day and Tifara Brown, the first work in the Cincinnati opera’s three-part Black Opera Project. Inspired by mythology, dystopian world building and Black and Indigenous American heritage, the libretto by Brown is strong and sometimes amusing using English and the Tutnese secret language, developed by enslaved African Americans. The music by Kevin Day is mostly atonal, sometimes melodic, always with sumptuous harmonies. The outstanding performances by the cast, Cincinnati Symphony, the lush sets and costumes and an enthusiastic audience make for a thrilling evening.
The Story
Lalovavi is set 400 years in the future in the city of Atlas, formerly Atlanta. Persephone, the youngest daughter of Titan, the ruler of Atlas. It is a caste system, and the worth of a person is determined by the presence of Syndica, a gene that stimulates vitality and longevity. Persephone is discovered to have a version that supports immortality, which her father covets. He is willing to sacrifice her for it. Persephone sets out on an Odyssey to discover her heritage and her powers of love and her destiny.
The Players
The talent of the cast is simply breathtaking.
The Soprano who portrays Persephone, Brittany Olivia Logan begins as a young woman but becomes a powerful leader by the end of her journey. Her voice is fearless and radiant. Adrienne Danrich, Persephone’s nursemaid has a rich commanding presence and voice, which is fierce and triumphant.
Morris Robinson portrayed Titan with a deep dark timbre, perfect for his character. Lucian, the leader of Titan’s guard is Terrence Chin-Loy whose tenor is translucent and awe inspiring. The Opera Chorus is incredible, their gorgeous sound fills Music Hall.
The Cincinnati Symphony played beautifully as usual, led by Kevin Miller. Mr. Miller conducted the orchestra to support the singers without overpowering them. He managed to breathe with the singers, which led to a responsive performance.
The Creative Team
The creative team contributed immensely to the experience of Lalovavi. The Lighting Designer, Thomas C. Hase was able to fit the atmosphere of each scene, with cold, harsh lighting for scenes in Atlas and warm rich colors in Nunewaks. The costumes, by Kara Harmon are incredible, especially for Persephone, from her pajamas to the sparkly party dress to her final super-hero look. They are futuristic and impeccable. The sets are also extraordinary from the hard lines of Atlas to the bioluminescent forest thanks to Steven C. Kemp.
The one flaw in the opera is its length. At three and a half hours, including intermission, Lalovavi asks a great deal of its audience. As with many world premieres, there are opportunities to tighten the work, and trimming even 15 to 20 minutes could improve pacing. If the goal is to increase accessibility for new and modern audiences, a leaner running time would make this remarkable opera even more inviting.
Final Word
Lalovavi is an important piece of work, for all audiences. Settle in for the ride, it is worth it.
Lalovavi repeats on July 11, 2026. Tickets are available at Cincinnatiopera.org or call 513-241-2742.
Danrich), Niamara (Talise Trevigne), Lucian (Terrence Chin-Loy), and the Nunewak warriors. Photo by Philip Groshong.
