Hydrogen Jukebox

Hydrogen Jukebox is the evocative collaboration of two of the 20th century’s most notable American artists, composer Philip Glass and poet Allen Ginsberg. Presented just days before a transforming presidential inauguration, this provocative production captures artistically the energy of a nation at change, and forms a poignant punctuation to a time of political turmoil. The production highlights the beauties and failures of the American dream. Hydrogen Jukebox is a musical setting of fragments of Allen Ginsberg’s poetry that cross the entire body of his work. Written in 1990 for the Spoleto Festival, the work is widely considered Glass’ most accessible opera, and though non-linear in narrative, perhaps his most relevant. The American Opera Theater creative team leads a cast and orchestra from Georgetown University’s Department of Performing Arts in molding Hydrogen Jukebox into a portrait of the rise and fall of the American Century, the passing age of a society portrayed though the imagery of America. While serving as a long overdue Washington, DC premier of an opera by one of America’s most renowned living composers, this production also strives to be an artistic beacon and centurion during the momentous inaugural festivities. Contemporary images and ancient ritual combine in social catharsis.